What: Teams of two in the Big Island’s largest CrossFit competition
KAILUA-KONA — Saddle up, partner, because it’s time for Double Trouble.
The sixth annual CrossFit competition is set to welcome 63 teams of two from around the state on Saturday for a grueling day of workouts, sweat, and maybe even a few smiles from the masochists in the field.
The event will feature five workouts — and two optional events — which will focus on various aspects of strength, agility, coordination and gymnastics.
The event is the brainchild of Andy Huebner, who is the owner of host box CrossFit Pohaku and master of punishment when it comes to designing the partner workouts. The day is set to feature everything from handstand pushups to tire flips.
“Everyone has different areas of strength and weakness, so when it comes to the workouts, it’s always interesting to see how things play out,” Huebner said. “It does take some strategy.”
The event — which will be the first at the gym’s new Kopiko Street location — will feature male, female and co-ed scaled divisions and Rx male and female divisions for the more seasoned athletes.
“Double Trouble is really a two-part event,” Huebner said. “Part 1 is the scaled division, which brings out a lot of people who want to have a good time with their friends and may be doing their first competition. They will enjoy themselves. The other side, or Part 2, is the Rx, or the expert athletes, that like to lift heavy weight and have great gymnastic skills. No doubt, there are some people who are coming out to play hard.”
For the first time, the male and female Rx athletes will be competing not only for podium bragging rights at the largest CrossFit competition on the Big Island, but also for prize money. Both the male and female Rx divisions have $500 up for grabs for the victors.
“We wanted to encourage athletes from other islands to come out,” Huebner said. “The only way to really grow something is to get people coming in from outside of your talent pool to spice up the competition. We are expecting a throwdown.”
The event is spectator-friendly, and cheers will be welcomed from those looking for an extra boost. There will also be vendors through the day and Huebner is hoping it will be a boost for the nearby businesses.
“This has turned into a nice little fitness spot with The Club right next to us and Fitness Forever above,” Huebner said. “Hopefully it can help shine a light on what we have going on here.”
Who: 63 teams/126 athletes from around the state in five divisions
When: Saturday, 8 a.m. first heat
Where: CrossFit Pohaku, on Kopiko St. next to The Club in Kona