Australian HYROX athlete Joanna Wietrzyk has apologized and surrendered the points she earned after facing online criticism over an incident during a women’s competition in Beijing.
Wietrzyk completed the competition despite the incident and went on to cross the finish line in first place.
Images from the event later circulated online, sparking criticism and concerns about hygiene and the possible health risks to other competitors.
In a statement, Wietrzyk said she felt completely fit and healthy before the race and had no indication that she would experience any illness or stomach problems.
She acknowledged, however, that she regrets choosing to continue competing after the incident happened.
HYROX said the equipment and areas affected were immediately cleaned and disinfected before the event continued.
The organizers also acknowledged that their response could have been handled better.
Following the controversy, HYROX said it has introduced additional protocols and procedures for dealing with similar incidents, including measures aimed at protecting the health and safety of athletes and maintaining proper hygiene during competitions.
(Photo Courtesy: Cult_fitness_training_club )
