07/21/2026
🎉 Happy 39th Birthday to the GOAT, Rich Froning Jr.! 🐐
Had to take a trip down memory lane and share some of Emily's photo collection with Rich that dates all the way back to 2011. It's been incredible to watch his journey over the years, and it's no exaggeration to say that Rich, Mayhem, and the Mayhem community have had a profound impact on our journey at Brigade Athletic Club.
Yes, Rich is a legend in the sport—winning four consecutive CrossFit Games championships followed by six CrossFit Games Affiliate Cup team titles over the next eight years. But as remarkable as those accomplishments are, that's not what stands out most.
On his side is tattooed Galatians 6:14:
"May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."
That verse captures what has always made Rich different. He's never viewed CrossFit as the destination—he's viewed it as the platform.
As Rich recently shared: "CrossFit gave me a platform. And I've always known that platform isn't mine."
Today, there are more than 2,000 Mayhem Affiliate gyms in over 60 countries, and his vision is bigger than fitness. Through Operation 2000, the mission is to equip those gyms and coaches to become outposts for the Gospel of Jesus Christ by the year 2033—2,000 years after Christ's resurrection.
Jesus said in Matthew 28:19: "Go and make disciples of all nations."
We believe CrossFit gyms are uniquely positioned for that mission. They're places where people struggle together, encourage one another, build trust, and develop authentic relationships. We've experienced that firsthand at Brigade, and it's a big part of why we do what we do.
Happy Birthday, Rich! Thank you for showing the world what it looks like to pursue excellence while keeping Christ at the center. Your legacy extends far beyond championships, and we're grateful for the impact you've had on our gym, our family, and countless lives around the world.
