On April 25, 2026, at the Grand Palais in Paris, the two Bordeaux sports coaches clinched victory in the doubles category for Hyrox in the 60-64 age group, with an impressive time of 1h23'23, earning their qualification for the World Championships in Sweden along the way.
First time at Hyrox… and already an achievement!
For their very first Hyrox, Laurence Clanet and Maï Obbée probably didn’t imagine such a scenario. Set against a spectacular backdrop and an electrifying atmosphere, they dominated their category in front of an international competition.
« It was an absolutely incredible atmosphere… an energy that's hard to describe », they confided to us. From the moment they stepped into the Grand Palais, it was clear: this wouldn't be just any race.
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An intense physical and mental challenge
The concept of Hyrox seems simple at first glance: run 8 kilometers, interspersed with demanding physical stations. But on the field, each challenge turns into a test. SkiErg, sled push, burpees, lunges, and wall balls: “a huge ride of effort and adrenaline.” The two athletes held strong until the end, without a single penalty, a remarkable feat in this type of competition.
Weeks of preparation... and determination
Behind this performance, weeks of intensive training between Bordeaux and its surroundings. Sessions at the Public Garden, in clubs, repeated circuits, fatigue, doubts... but also camaraderie and motivation. “Why did we...paid to suffer like that ? », they joke today. A phrase that's become almost a mantra over the course of the training.
Beyond athletic performance, this victory has a strong personal significance. Laurence Clanet ran for her organization, “Les Liens du Cœur,” which supports children with congenital heart conditions. “Giving meaning to the effort has always been essential,” she explains.
Onward to the World Championships
With this victory, the women from Bordeaux qualify for the Hyrox World Championships in Sweden in June 2026. A new step they approach with ambition.
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«There’s no age for dreaming big », they assert. Their new goal: aiming for a top 10… or even better!