Chandler Smith announced he’ll be competing at the 2020 CrossFit Games following recent developments at CrossFit HQ.
“We decided to sit-out because we hoped that we could help trigger a positive cultural change within in a brand we all love dearly,” he said. “The combined efforts of athletes, affiliates, brands and employees contributed to @CrossFit committing to a serious values change through the pending sale to @rozaeric.”
“At this point I think there’s a new best way to continue to be a part of positive change, so with that in mind, I’m back,” he concluded.
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The athlete, who finished his rookie Games in 15th place last year, had said he wouldn’t participate at the CrossFit Games until changes at CrossFit were made. This statement, on June 8, followed offensive remarks by CrossFit’s founder and then CEO, Greg Glassman, on Twitter, Zoom calls and email communication.
“It is my hope that others join me in applying pressure to HQ in order to improve the organization we love and make it better going forward,” he published back then.
Allegations of a sexist culture within the company emerged after Smith’s post.
The backlash included brands like Reebok, Rogue and ROMWOD suspending their partnership and sponsorship negotiations with CrossFit, as well as hundreds of gyms around the world claiming they would disaffiliate, and 20 athletes in total stating they would boycott the CrossFit Games until significant changes were made.
Greg Glassman has since stepped down as CEO, CrossFit issued an apology, and the company was bought by Eric Roza, who will step in as owner and CEO at the end of July.
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- chandler smith: BOXROX