Leroy Saunders, a well-known figure in Thailand’s CrossFit community and a former head coach in Hua Hin, has died after collapsing during the Hyrox Bangkok 2026 competition.
The 41-year-old South African lost consciousness during the event at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on Thursday, 13 August. He was resuscitated at the venue and taken to hospital, according to a statement posted on his Instagram account.
His family confirmed his death on Tuesday (18 Aug) but said the circumstances surrounding what happened were not yet fully understood.
“We are aware everyone would like closure and a better understanding, and we are working hard to be able to offer this when the time is right,” the statement said.
The family asked Hyrox and the media to refrain from speculation until further details had been established.
Leroy Saunders had strong links to Hua Hin
Leroy was well known to members of Hua Hin’s fitness community.
In 2021, he was head coach at the CrossFit gym at The Legend Arena at BluPort, which became Hua Hin’s first fully affiliated CrossFit gym when it opened.
Saunders was one of only two Level 3 CrossFit coaches in Thailand at the time and helped establish the facility during CrossFit’s early development in Hua Hin.
He later owned IAOT CrossFit in Bangkok and worked extensively in strength and conditioning, particularly with combat sports athletes.
Saunders also founded Fight by Design, a physical training programme aimed at Muay Thai fighters, MMA athletes and boxers.
His family said he had influenced hundreds, if not thousands, of people during his career.
Hyrox Bangkok 2026
Hyrox is a fitness competition combining eight kilometres of running with eight workout stations, testing both endurance and strength.
Saunders collapsed while competing at the Bangkok event.
His family said more information would be shared once they had a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding his death.