Competing at the highest level of HYROX is demanding under normal circumstances. Doing it while seven months pregnant adds an entirely different dimension to the challenge.
American athlete Rachel Legacy delivered one of the most remarkable performances of the 2026 HYROX season at the HYROX Americas Championships in Washington, D.C., competing across both Elite races while 29 weeks pregnant.
Legacy first raced in the Elite 15 women’s singles event on March 7, finishing in 1:15:09. The following day she returned to the competition floor to compete in the Elite Women’s Doubles division alongside Hayleigh Kanthack, where the pair finished 11th overall with a time of 1:02:43.
A Season Unlike Any Other
Legacy has been competing in HYROX since 2022, when she first raced in New York. Since then, she has continued to build experience across multiple events while developing into one of the athletes regularly appearing in competitive fields.
The 2025–2026 season, however, has been unique. Legacy has continued racing throughout her pregnancy, adjusting training and expectations along the way.
Her recent appearances have included HYROX Dallas in November 2025, Anaheim in December and Phoenix earlier this year, where she competed in the Pro Doubles division while six months pregnant.
Speaking ahead of the Washington, D.C. race, Legacy explained that maintaining fitness rather than building it has become the focus during pregnancy.
“I am seven months pregnant, so it looks a little different,” she said in an interview shared by HYROX. “I’m still qualified and able to be here, so I’m going to do the best I can.”
“It’s not a time where you get fitter,” she added. “It’s more about trying to maintain the fitness you already have.”
Overcoming a Difficult February
Legacy’s road to the Americas Championships also included an unexpected health scare. In February she revealed in an instagram post that she temporarily experienced symptoms of foot drop after falling ill earlier in the month.
After beginning treatment and gradually regaining movement, she was able to return to training and ultimately confirmed her intention to race in Washington.
A Memorable Weekend in Washington
By the time race weekend arrived, Legacy not only stepped onto the start line but completed both Elite races during the two-day competition.
The performances quickly gained attention within the HYROX community, highlighting both the resilience required to compete during pregnancy and the growing depth of competition in the sport.
For Legacy, the moment will likely become part of a story she will one day share with her child.
“This is already going to be quite the story to tell my baby someday,” she said before the race.
About The Author
Jeremiah Oliva is a writer passionate about fitness, sports, and active living. He has experience in songwriting and managing content and social media for online radio and magazine platforms.
He covers HYROX, CrossFit®, and competitive fitness, with a focus on performance, mindset, and athlete development.
Outside of writing, Jeremiah trains in boxing, cycles, explores the outdoors with his kids, and plays the guitar.
