Three-time and defending CrossFit Games Women’s Champion Tia-Clair Toomey is among the latest notable people in the sport of fitness to express her thoughts about the recent controversy surrounding founder Greg Glassman’s tweet and the larger issues surrounding racism in her sport.
The Fittest Woman on Earth made her statement publicly via an IGTV video on her Instagram page. Aside from the comments on the video, she also made a written statement.
“Making a Stand!
I wanted to start by saying that I am incredibly saddened, disappointed and frustrated with the actions and words of Crossfit HQ and in particular Greg Glassman.
I’m deeply apologetic from the bottom of my heart to all the people who have had to witness this ignorance and the pain it causes. A lack of acknowledgement and empathy for those who are fighting for basic human rights and equality is simply inexcusable and it’s behaviour that we cannot stand for.
It has made both Shane and I incredibly ashamed to be a part of an organisation that we have dedicated so much of ourselves to. If it has us angered and disappointed like we are, we couldn’t even begin to imagine how these words and actions affect the extremely diverse global community of CrossFitters and supporters who have all dedicated so much time, money and passion to the sport. But this is much bigger than the sport.
For those who continue to be dismissive of inequality, you must understand that this is a truly GLOBAL issue and we NO longer can sit idle and do or say nothing. It’s on ALL of us to keep fighting the cause globally until systemic racism and the inhumane treatment of black communities around the globe no longer exists.
I said earlier that this issue is much bigger than sport, yet sport and the functional fitness space has a really important part to play. Sport and fitness bring us together and unite us in such a powerful and profound way.
I want my platform to drive positivity, unity and the overall message that no matter your skin colour or cultural background, we should all inspire one another to be the best versions of themselves. I want my platform to reflect the values and beliefs of the community I feel most comfortable in, a community that raises up those around them and gives everybody their own individual opportunity to be a champion.
My future with Crossfit is unclear and depends on the direction of HQ.
I will continue to stand against ignorance and stand alongside those who fight abuse, hatred and racism.”
Several fans and athletes have offered support and praise for one of the reigning world champions of the sport to state that her future depends on what happens with HQ Several other notable figures have made stances similar to Toomey’s including past Fittest Woman on Earth Katrin Davidsdottir, Kari Pearce, and Rich Froning. Noah Ohlsen and Chandler Smith previously went as far as to withdraw from the 2020 Games unless changes are made.
Featured Video: Instagram/tiaclair1