Not All Heroic
This story was originally written for one of the most decorated master athletes in CrossFit, as part of a pitch project.
The project included two parts:
- A voice-over script for one of her Instagram competition videos from the 2025 season, which she won. The tone was bold and heroic.
- A narrative for the “About Me” section of her athlete application.
I chose this story because I believe in the character; While the material wasn’t selected, she kindly allowed me to share it. The name has been changed to respect her privacy. Below is the application narrative.
Application Narrative
I was almost flying, I couldn't see anything but the narrow lane I was running inside.
I had about 20 meters to finish.
10
5
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.
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Hi, I'm Elena Markari; And that was the greatest moment of my life, until ...
Weeks after that race, I was thinking how I started with a fragile body and turned myself into a formidable athlete. Letting go of that transformation hurt more than the torn muscle and the unfinished race I left beheind.
“You won't end up on that podium ever again,” that was the sound in my head.
I was lucky enough to have another chance with CrossFit. Not to finish first but I had to transform myself again and again. Just like the first time. I was not a weightlifter. I was not a gymnast, either. But I was willing to become one.
There is always a new direction, a new limit. But I promise you, if you are willing to change who you are, there will always be a new podium.