Tim Henry

An Amazing Journey to the Adaptive CrossFit Games

Competing for the first time in the Adaptive CrossFit Games, Tim Henry Finishes 10th in the World, and 1st in the hearts of his supporters.

Over the four days of the Games, athletes competed in a variety of challenging workouts designed to test their strength, endurance, and skill. Those of us in attendance witnessed incredible feats of athleticism as these athletes pushed their limits and redefined what's possible.

Earning a spot at the Games is a monumental achievement! This competition takes place on the global stage and gives Adaptive CrossFit Athletes the opportunity to showcase their skills and determination. It all starts with the Open, where athletes from all corners of the world compete for a chance to advance. From there, it's a grueling journey through the Quarterfinals and Semifinals, with only the top 10 making it to the prestigious Adaptive CrossFit Games.

To even have a shot at competing, you have to be among the best of the best, ranked in the top 10 worldwide. These athletes are the epitome of dedication, training relentlessly year-round. We're not talking about casual workouts a few times a week - these elite athletes commit to intense training, strict diets, and prioritizing their sleep. Tim poured his heart and soul into training, dedicating three hours a day, six days a week. Fueling his body with 3,300 calories of clean food daily and ensuring he got plenty of rest. He exemplified the level of commitment required to compete at this level. The journey to the Adaptive CrossFit Games is filled with sweat, sacrifice, and unwavering determination.

These athletes put everything they have into their training, pushing themselves to new heights. Tim's story is just one of many that showcase the incredible dedication and passion that goes into being an Adaptive CrossFit athlete.

In 2017, Tim was honorably discharged and retired from the Air Force due to injuries sustained during an overseas deployment that affected his lungs, back, and limbs. These injuries not only brought an end to his military career, but also left him feeling lost and without purpose. After undergoing numerous surgeries and more than three years of recovery, Tim was able to walk again with the aid of crutches. However, he knew that simply being able to walk was not enough - he needed to regain his health and strength.

Tim's journey led him to Black Goat Fitness, where he discovered adaptive exercise and the world of CrossFit. Tim states; “I chose CrossFit because I needed the accountability and support of a class environment”. Tim also found that the CrossFit community was different from traditional gyms - “They genuinely cared about each other and welcome newcomers with open arms. If you’re willing to sweat you are part of the family.”

With the unwavering support and encouragement of his "gym family," Tim began to see incredible progress. On good days, he no longer needed his crutches, and on bad days, his loyal service dog, Zeus, was there to help him get around. The sense of belonging and motivation he received from his CrossFit family inspired him to not only show up for himself, but to also uplift and encourage others in the same way he had been. "Before joining CrossFit, I was constantly putting myself down and focusing on my limitations due to my disabilities," Tim shared. "But my CrossFit family helped me shift my mindset and focus on what I could do, rather than what I couldn't. They've helped me become stronger, both physically and mentally, and I am forever grateful for their support.”

Tim's day is far from over once he leaves the gym. In addition to intense training sessions, he juggles multiple medical appointments, hours of therapy, outpatient procedures, and surgeries. Sometimes, the treatments required to heal his injuries are even more grueling than his workouts.

Tim entered his first CrossFit Open in 2021, just four years after retiring from the military. In 2022, he climbed to 74th place, showcasing his relentless drive to improve.

Even in 2023, after undergoing surgery to repair damage to his arm, Tim still managed to achieve a ranking of 166th globally. His goal for 2024 was to break into the top 50, but he exceeded all expectations. By the end of the Semifinals in June, he had secured an impressive 10th place in the world, earning a spot in the highly coveted 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games.

Tim’s advice to other Adaptive Athletes is: “Don’t ever give up!. It’s ok to slow down. Never Stop!" He lives these words himself.

The medications Tim takes due to his injuries has caused his bones to become brittle.  Three weeks prior to the Games, Tim broke his hand during training.  Most would have packed it in and settled for “maybe next year”. That’s just not in Tim’s DNA.  He not only pushed on but competed with a broken hand.

Tim's journey to the Games is a testament to his unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for pushing his limits. With each obstacle he faces, he emerges stronger and more determined than ever. The excitement and anticipation for what he will achieve next is always within reach, as he continues to defy expectations and inspire others with his incredible journey.

ABBullet is proud to have sponsored Tim at the Adaptive CrossFit Games!

Author: Larry Enger

Owner: ABBullet

 First and foremost, our #1 goal is to provide our customers with a high quality, durable home fitness product that does exactly what we say it will do along with the highest quality, innovative and effective nutritional products on the market.

 Our secondary mission is to help fund disabled veteran athletes in support of their personal goals and dreams.  Being a disabled veteran owned and operated company we will always strive to support these heroes, our brothers and sisters.  The ABBullet ONE SHIRT. ONE HAT. ONE PURPOSE. Initiative allows us to do that.