I was an athlete at HYROX event where Joanna Wietrzyk pooped herself – we’re owed compensation

“HYROX itself acknowledges that there was ambiguity in how its health and medical protocols were applied. For people who were exposed to that situation, there could be genuine physical and psychological consequences. Statements like this may also become relevant if affected participants later pursue legal claims and lawsuits.”

Another HYROX event, via Xinhua/Shutterstock

He then went on to suggest those there are deserving of compensation. Joe added: “I paid HYROX to provide a professionally organised and safe event. So while I understand the athlete perspective, ultimately my contract and expectation is with HYROX.

“If the organisation accepts that something went wrong, why not offer affected participants refunds, credits, or some meaningful form of compensation? Protecting athletes is important, but showing the wider community that HYROX takes responsibility when its own procedures fail is just as important. That would do far more to rebuild trust than simply asking everyone to move forward together.”

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Joe Ho (@johopalooza)

Other athletes, who have attended similar events, have also spoken out. “No respect for other people,” HYROX athlete Benjamin Amsallem said, of Joanna deciding to carry on, regardless of those around her. 

“HYROX absolutely has bathrooms, and you can pick up where you left off, hence the ankle bracelets. Idc if you’re winning or what, if you poop yourself, you may not need to be [disqualified], but you sure need to take that break,” Isaiah King commented.

After the incident, HYROX co-founder Moritz Fürste issued a personal statement “addressing the China incident directly”, and said “we learn and try to get better”.

He said: “I need to address all of you directly concerning the recent events in China. I apologise to all that were directly or indirectly affected, as well as to everyone who felt like we did not handle the situation like we should have.

“HYROX made a mistake by not reacting immediately during the race. In the end it is my job to foresee these potential incidents – and I did not. Of course, we started improving event processes, plus making rule book changes immediately.

“As of this moment, there are new rules and procedures in place to prevent situations like this from happening again. We learn and try to get better everyday.”