A local Stratford-upon-Avon resident is officially putting the town on the global fitness map after shattering a British record at one of the world’s fastest-growing sporting events.
Sam Craig, 34, stunned the crowd at the recent HYROX event held at Birmingham’s NEC. Competing against a field that drew over 27,000 athletes throughout the weekend, Craig crossed the finish line with a remarkable time of 53:59. This performance not only secured him the British solo record but also ranks as the eighth-fastest Open result ever recorded worldwide.
The feat is even more impressive considering the nature of HYROX. The race is a grueling test of total fitness, requiring athletes to alternate between 1km runs and functional workout stations eight times, totaling 8km of running and eight distinct physical challenges. Despite the Open category being accessible to athletes of every ability level, Craig’s time places him among the global elite.
From Musician to Record Breaker
Craig’s journey to the top of the podium hasn’t followed a traditional path. Previously working full-time as a musician, he initially built his fitness foundation in triathlon. Following a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic, he was looking for a new challenge just as HYROX was beginning to gain traction in the UK.
Despite his recent success, the father-of-one remains humble about his natural abilities.
“I’m not naturally gifted at sport – I grew up and enjoyed playing sports, games and swimming, but was terrible at athletics. HYROX was something I tried in 2022 and it’s honestly been such a transformative part of my life. It’s incredibly accessible, the community is brilliant and anyone can give it a go.”
Standing at 6ft 2in, Craig notes that his build is larger than the typical endurance athlete, but he found that HYROX offered a unique balance for his physique.
“I’m 6ft2 so a bigger guy for endurance sports and often carry a bit of weight or certainly have done for a lot of my life. With HYROX, I thought it looked a bit of fun for someone that can do some running and likes going to the gym. I dived in without really knowing anything about it or having done any proper training for it and had a go,” Craig explained.
“I’ve been working away at it for about three years now and to be honest, it’s just been consistency. It really is the sport that returns for people who are willing to show up and put in the work daily.”
Local Support and Facilities
Craig conducts his training exclusively at Stratford Leisure Centre. For the past two years, he has been a member of the Sporting Champions scheme, a programme run by leisure operator Everyone Active on behalf of Stratford-on-Avon District Council. The scheme provides aspiring athletes with mentoring, support, and access to top-tier facilities.
According to Craig, having professional-grade resources on his doorstep was vital to breaking the British record.
“I couldn’t do this sport without access to the gym at Stratford Leisure Centre and I don’t know what my training would look like if I wasn’t part of the Sporting Champions scheme this year,” he said.
“Being able to come into a leisure centre with good equipment, and specifically, HYROX specific kit, such as the ski ERGs and all the strength facilities, makes it possible to do this sport properly in a good environment. But the main thing for me is the community there and within Stratford. It’s one of those things that just completely changed the game, from training on your own in your garage or out on the roads on a soggy November morning.”
A Model for the Community
The rapid rise of HYROX has led to increased demand for structured training and group classes across the UK, including sessions now running at the Stratford Leisure Centre. Local officials see Craig’s success as a testament to what can be done with the right local support.
Richard Bell, Everyone Active contract manager, commented:
“Sam’s success is a fantastic example of what can be achieved through dedication, community support and the accessibility of HYROX training. We’re incredibly proud to support him through our Sporting Champions scheme and he’s become a real role model for both our members and the wider Stratford community.”
Cllr Lorraine Grocott, Environmental and Neighbourhood Services Portfolio, added:
“Sam’s achievement is a fantastic example of what can happen when local talent is supported. HYROX is a growing sport, and we hope more local residents will take advantage of the excellent facilities and programmes available here in Stratford-upon-Avon. Through our partnership with Everyone Active, we aim to create inclusive spaces that support both elite athletes and the wider community in leading active lifestyles.”
Hoping to inspire other locals to utilize the facilities and try the sport, Craig offered a final word of encouragement for those balancing fitness with a busy life.
“HYROX is a really accessible sport for normal people with a job and a family. If you turn up, are consistent and measured, and set goals in these sports, you can go as far as you want to.”
