Hawke's Bay CrossFit competition ready to heat up

CrossFit organiser Henry Heke is expecting more than 300 CrossFit fanatics at the national competition in the Bay today. Photo File

Hundreds of fitness fanatics are expected to flock to the region today for the longest-running Crossfit competition in New Zealand, Judgement Day.

Event organiser Henry Heke said the event was expected to host more than 300 athletes, most of whom were from out of town, over the three-day competition.

"It started off as a small competition of 60 people and it's since morphed into a big event which we now call Judgement Day.

"I run it under my own affiliate, CrossFit 879, which I operate out of the Flaxmere Community Centre."

Now in its sixth year, the national competition will be free to the public for the first time this year, he said.

"Our athletes will be competing in roughly 10 events; what we call seven Workouts of the Day or 'WODS'. Some of those are double events so contestants get an opportunity to get two scores."

Mr Heke said 90 per cent of the contestants were from out of town and more than 100 volunteers had registered to support the family-friendly event.

There would be a vendor and athlete village on site at the showgrounds, campsites available for those participating and ringside VIP tables available for those who wished to inquire with the event organiser.

"This is a family event so everyone is welcome to come on down. The main event can expect a thrilling showdown. This is the first time this event has been totally held outside," he said.

Athletes would be vying for the top award 'You Have Been Judged' and an assortment of prizes over the three day competition which would be held at the Napier Soundshell today and then the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds tomorrow and on Sunday.

Contestants compete in beginner, intermediate, masters, teenagers and elite divisions; elite contestants go on to international CrossFit events.

Mr Heke said it was hoped there would be a decent crowd of onlookers as Judgement Day was being run in conjunction with the Holden Car Show and weekly Farmers Market at the showgrounds this weekend.

When asked if he would be competing the CrossFit gym owner said "heck no".

"I'm a lifestyle cross fitter. I do it for the lifestyle but I support those who are looking to become fitter, faster and stronger."

The competition will be run at the Napier Soundshell from 2pm to 7pm today and at the Hawke's Bay Showgrounds from 7am to 7pm tomorrow and 7am to 3.30pm on Sunday.

The competition is free to the public and open to all ages.