A respected fitness coach has died after collapsing while competing in a high-intensity HYROX event.
Leroy Saunders, 41, lost consciousness during the competition last Friday.
Event staff and medical teams immediately rushed to help the South African coach before he was taken to a nearby hospital, as reported by Need To Know.
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He was later pronounced dead after the event in Bangkok.
Saunders’ family confirmed his death in a statement shared with his followers, saying they were still trying to understand what happened and asking people not to speculate while they await further medical information.
“Until the last second of this moment, Leroy lived his life without regret or hesitation,” his family said.
The fitness community has since paid tribute to the coach who had built a reputation as a respected mentor and trainer.
Saunders was based in Bangkok, where he owned a CrossFit gym and ran Fight by Design, a strength and conditioning programme for combat athletes.
He specialised in training fighters across disciplines including Muay Thai, MMA and boxing, and was also a CrossFit Level 3 trainer and member of the CrossFit Seminar Staff.
HYROX combines running with a series of demanding functional exercises including sled pushes, rowing and wall balls.
Saunders had competed in the event previously, completing the doubles category in 2025 in one hour, 17 minutes and 51 seconds.
The latest event was held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre in Bangkok.
Saunders’ death has sent shockwaves through the international fitness community, with friends, former clients and fellow coaches paying tribute online.
His family has asked for privacy as they await a full explanation of his death.
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