Discover Lauren’s journey as a multi-sport athlete in her previous blog post here before exploring her latest story below.

What initially drew you to compete in the Adaptive CrossFit Games by WheelWOD, and what were your goals going into the 2025 event?

I took up Cross Fit to enhance my Para Rowing. I have a great coach who encouraged me to try and qualify for the Adaptive Cross Fit Games. You have to qualify in the top 10 in the world to gain an invitation to compete at the games. I was lucky enough to qualify in both 2024 and 2025. I finished 8th in 2024 so my goal in 2025 was to better that. I finished 6th in 2025.

How did your training specifically change in the lead-up to the 2025 Adaptive CrossFit Games compared to your typical preparation?

My coach was unable to attend the games in Las Vegas this year. I was extremely fortunate to find Christina Colvin from Cross Fit Las Vegas and spend a few days before the games at the Las Vegas gym. We worked especially hard on some competition elements that I was having difficulty with.

[Lauren Webber is in a gym lifting a weighted barbell overhead with focused determination, surrounded by racks, mirrors, and fitness equipment.]

Was there a particular workout, event, or challenge at the Games that really tested you, and how did you approach it?

The Adaptive Cross Fit Games are "the best of the best" in all categories. Each element of the competition is designed to challenge the athletes. I found the 10-foot rope climb and the multiple pull ups were the most challenging. I gained a PB on the rope climb, adapting a method that Christina showed me, but I have a lot of work to do on the pull ups.

How would you describe the atmosphere and sense of community among adaptive athletes at the Games? Did any interactions leave a lasting impression?

The camaraderie amongst athletes, officials, judges and spectators was amazing. It doesn't matter if you finish first or last, everyone is behind you. Often those who finished the course early cheered on those at the back end of finishing. Some of the biggest cheers were for those who simply finished.

Reflecting on the 2025 Games, what did you learn about yourself, and how is that shaping your training and goals moving forward?

I achieved a few PB's in Las Vegas. With my coach Karl, and then Christina’s help I even completed a few disciplines that I had never attempted before. Karl and I have already commenced planning for the 2026 Games; qualifications commence in February.  In 2024 I was 8th, in 2025 I came 6th. My aim in 2026 (should I qualify) is to be in the top 4.

[Lauren Webber stands proudly in front of the 2025 Adaptive Crossfit Games by WheelWOD media wall whilst using her black PainPod 2 with Large Premium Pads on her quads.]

Is para-rowing still something you’re aiming to train and compete in alongside CrossFit?

I still enjoy rowing, however more on a recreational basis at the moment. The bursitis in my shoulder is improving and didn't pose too many issues in Las Vegas. I'm looking at returning to the racing season in 2026 but I will pick what boat I will race in that season.

Which PainPod products do you currently enjoy using and why? 

I love using the Shoulder Wrap and the Premium Pads Large on my legs and arms.