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Renowned Fitness Coach Leroy Saunders Passes Away Following HYROX Bangkok Incident
South African fitness expert Leroy Saunders has died after collapsing during the BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 competition.
The Thai fitness community is mourning the loss of Leroy Saunders, a 41-year-old South African fitness coach and founder of Fight by Design, who passed away following a medical emergency. According to reports from Khaosod Online, Saunders collapsed while participating in the BYD HYROX Bangkok 2026 event held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on August 13.
Despite immediate intervention by on-site medical personnel and subsequent transport to a hospital, Saunders could not be saved. His family confirmed the news via his personal Instagram account on August 18. Saunders was a well-known figure in the industry, recognized for his work as the owner of IAOT CrossFit and his expertise in sports science and strength conditioning, including training programs for Muay Thai athletes.
For residents and visitors, this incident highlights the physical intensity of high-endurance fitness competitions held in Thailand. The family has stated that the exact cause of death is currently under investigation. They have requested that the public, media, and event organizers refrain from speculation or sharing unverified details regarding the circumstances of the incident until a formal conclusion is reached. As of now, no further information regarding the cause of the collapse has been released by the authorities or the event organizers.