The 2024 Paralympic Games might be over but for a mum of two from Drumnadrochit in the Scottish Highlands, she is jetting off to the US after qualifying for the 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games in San Antonio, Texas.
34-year-old Rachel Hives, who was diagnosed with FND (Functional Neurological Disorder) at the age of 19, secured her place at the Games after competing against CrossFit’s adaptive athlete community in a series of qualifying events earlier this year.
She has now earned her place in the final 10 of the Female Standing Diagnosed category at the 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games. Rachel goes into the final in Texas from 19th to 22nd September, seeded first place in the UK.
Rachel Hives living with FND
“FND affects between 50,000 to 100,000 people living within the UK, creating problems with how the brain receives and sends information to the rest of the body,” explains Rachel.
“In my case, it causes issues with paralysis, spasms, dissociative seizures, vision, speech, sensory and cognitive function, as well as a lot of pain – when I can feel things.
“As someone who likes to be active, it is mentally challenging when these episodes occur. They can range from minutes to months, to years. But it is so important for me to show up and keep setting an example for my kids.”
Rachel Hives competing at the 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games
Rachel explains more about how she got into CrossFit: “At the end of 2022, when I had a lot of muscle wastage from time in a wheelchair, I wanted to join a gym to help build my body back up and find a new focus.
“It was then that I found CrossFit. I joined CrossFit 57 North in Inverness, starting out with the basics and using a training bar as I slowly got stronger. Little did I know that CrossFit would change my life – for the better – thanks to the support and great coaching, with lots of laughs along the way! Fast forward to 2024, and I’m still in disbelief that I’ve qualified for the Adaptive CrossFit Games – it really is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Rachel, who is studying for a degree in Business and Management at UHI Inverness, has now set up a GoFundMe campaign to help with travel costs and expenses to get to the competition in Texas.
Donnie Beaton, Owner and Head Coach at CrossFit 57 North, continues: “We are all really excited for Rachel. There are not many people who make it to the CrossFit Games, so we’re so proud to have one of our own representing us, Scotland and the UK on this international stage.
“Of course, it’s a big commitment for Rachel to get to Texas, both in terms of training for the competition and costs. That’s why we’re all getting behind her, cheering her on during training and raising funds to get her to Texas.
“We can’t wait to see Rachel on the 2024 Adaptive CrossFit Games stage and wish her all the luck in the world!”
To help fund her trip, visit Rachel’s GoFundMe campaign to donate.
For updates on CrossFit 57 North’s events and Rachel’s progress, please follow CrossFit 57 North on Instagram.