80-year-old Cancer Survivor Smashes First Hyrox

two men engage in physical training at a fitness center
80-year-old Cancer Survivor Finishes Hyrox Doubles @heavenlybodies_gym - Instagram

Just two months after receiving the all-clear following his battle with cancer, 80 year old Roger Davenport tackled a fitness challenge that would push men a quarter of his age out of their comfort zone, completing the Manchester Hyrox Doubles race on January 25th.

With his partner and coach, Matt Scarff, the pair finished the race, earning Roger the nickname: 'Roger the Resilient'.

Davenport earned the title after recovering from a stroke and a cancer diagnosis, after wich he approached Scarff for training. Davenport shared, 'I just didn't feel as though sitting on the couch was doing [me] very much good.' The pair then enrolled in the doubles division of the Hyrox competition to raise awareness and funds for cancer.

To put the loftiness of Davenport's achievement into perspective, the Hyrox fitness event includes an 8k running race, split up every 1km with eight different exercises:

  • 1km ski-erg

  • 50m sled push

  • 50m sled pull

  • 80m burpee broad jump

  • 1km row

  • 200m farmer's carry

  • 100m sandbag lunge

  • 100 wall balls

'Roger is living proof that no matter the odds, you can fight back, rise above, and thrive,' said his race partner in an Instagram caption. 'This was more than just crossing the finish line; it was a victory for everyone fighting this battle and a big, bold “FUCK CANCER” to every obstacle life throws our way.'

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