Semifinals Done, Games Bound: A 49-Year-Old’s Big Win
EverBold Newsletter: 04/10/25: #getbolder
Semifinals are in the books—April 3rd-6th, 2025—and I’m still buzzing. Unofficially, I’ve taken 1st in the 45-49 division, and at 49, I’m the oldest guy in the pack. That’s a confidence jolt I didn’t see coming 10 years ago when I first stepped into this game. Let’s break down the highs, the grind, and what’s next as I chase a sixth straight CrossFit Games title.
The Highlight Reel: Heavy Isabel Steals the Show
This weekend was a beast, but one moment stands out: Workout 25.3—Heavy Isabel. Thirty snatches for time at 185 pounds. That’s a weight that’s heavy even for me—I’m thrilled to hit it as a single power snatch in training. But in competition? I found a gear I didn’t know I had. Three minutes and 45 seconds later, I’d knocked out all 30 reps—pure power snatches, no quit. I took 3rd in that event, not a win, but damn, it’s my proudest moment. Proving I could hang with that barbell at 49? That’s a victory I’ll carry for a while.
Then there was Event 25.1—55 power cleans at 185 pounds and 53 bar muscle-ups in 10 minutes to snag 1st here, but holy hell, it hurt. Every clean felt like a gut punch, and those muscle-ups tested my soul at the end. Still, finishing in the 10th round showed me what preparation and experience can do.
Ready for the Fight
I felt dialed in all weekend—physically and mentally. My training with Bolder Athlete had me primed: the heavy lifts, the volume, the relentless pace. Add a decade of qualifiers under my belt, and I knew how to stay cool when the clock started. It wasn’t luck—it was work, and it paid off.
Team Effort: Hosting the Chaos
We didn’t just compete—we hosted. A dozen athletes rolled into our affiliate for Semifinals, and I helped orchestrate the madness. Stress? Sure, with moving parts everywhere—judges, cameras, schedules. But our team and volunteers? Absolute rockstars. They made sure every athlete had a blast, and I’m proud to be part of a crew that lifts everyone up.
What’s Next: Games on the Horizon
Right now, the community’s reviewing videos—a quirky, sometimes debated process I won’t dive into. CrossFit HQ will finalize the leaderboard by April 21st. I’m confident in my performance, my videos, and that I hit every standard. So, I’m planning my trip to Columbus for the 2025 Age Group CrossFit Games. Goal? Win my sixth consecutive title, sweep the 45-49 division five years running, then age up to 50-54 next year with a fresh fire.
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Coaching Takeaway: Trust the Process
At 49, topping my division isn’t about being the youngest or flashiest—it’s about consistency and grit. I’m not superhuman; I just show up, day after day. That’s the trick: prep hard, lean on experience, and trust it’ll carry you. You’ve got that in you too—age doesn’t get a vote.
Your Move: Own It
Semifinals showed me what’s possible when you commit. Want in? Pick a challenge—lift heavier, move faster, or just start. Then stick with it. I’ll be in Columbus chasing six—where will you be?
Stay Bold,
Jason Grubb
5-Time CrossFit Games
Masters Champ
Bolder Athlete Founder
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