The 2025 TYR Wodapalooza showcased a elite competition among top Games athletes, all vying for the top spot on the podium. In the end, it was James Sprague who claimed the spotlight. Sprague proved his dominance against an elite field that included three-time TYR WZA champion Pat Vellner and two-time reigning champion Ricky Garard. 

A Weekend of Dominance 

From the very first event, “Two Rounds Too Many,” Sprague showcased his endurance, a long-standing strength in his arsenal, clinching an early victory. He followed this up with two more top-two finishes, ending Day 1 as the man to beat. 

Where Sprague truly demonstrated his evolution as an athlete, however, was on Day 2. In “Worth the Weight,” a weightlifting complex involving a clean and hang clean, Sprague lifted an impressive 345 pounds—an event that would have been a weakness in years past. “You know, these were some events on paper that weren’t the best for me,” Sprague admitted in a post-event interview. “Me and my coach have been really working hard at everything I’m weak at to make sure I’m not weak on the floor anymore.” 

This sentiment was echoed as Sprague delivered another standout performance in “Cuban Press,” a heavy dumbbell bench press workout, securing second place in a movement traditionally challenging for his 6-foot-2, long-limbed frame. 

The weekend culminated in a second-place finish in the final event, “Cortadito 2.0,” cementing his overall victory. Sprague’s consistency across all events, including those that historically posed a challenge, was a testament to his hard work and adaptability. 

Validation Through Victory 

For Sprague, this win was not just about points or podiums—it was deeply personal. “It was a good validation that the work we’re putting in is really paying off,” he shared. “I’m not just a little skinny kid anymore. I can actually lift the weight, so that’s kind of nice for a change.” 

His preparation for this competition also stood out. “I’ve just had a lot more fun leaning into them,” Sprague said, attributing his success to the supportive community around him and the camaraderie of his training partners. “The fun is fueling me because I’m just showing up to training with good dudes, and we just have a good time.” 

AIRWAAV: The Confidence Boost

A key part of Sprague’s performance is his reliance on the AIRWAAV mouthpiece, both in training and competition. When asked if there were specific events where the mouthpiece made the most difference, Sprague responded, “Honestly, I need it for every event. Whether it’s a lift, gymnastics, or something super aerobic, I feel naked without it.” He added, “When I have it in, I’m like, okay, this is just an extra layer of confidence. It’s helping me breathe, it’s helping me brace, and it’s helping me be better."

Looking Ahead 

As Sprague sets his sights on the rest of the season, his goals are clear. “I want to crush the Open. I want to qualify for the Games through the Mayhem Classic this year and see what happens,” he said, already looking toward the challenges ahead with his signature determination. 

A Champion’s Legacy in the Making 

With this victory, James Sprague has set the tone for the season and firmly solidified his status as a force to be reckoned with in CrossFit. His ability to turn past weaknesses into strengths, coupled with his mental and physical resilience, leaves no doubt—James Sprague is the real deal, the Fittest Man on Earth, and he’s only getting started.