TEAM PORTUGAL: The Build-Up
Choosing a national team to represent a country in any sport or competition requires a systematic approach to identifying the best athletes. Although, at first glance, this may seem straightforward and rational, it is more complex. The definition of “the best” can be subjective and vary depending on the interpretation of the term. The most skilled and capable athletes for a specific task or mission aren´t always easy to identify.
A few weeks ago, Hyrox World announced the introduction of a national team relay competition as the highlight of the World Champs weekend event. This model is similar to the Olympic Triathlon format, which is not surprising considering the background of Christian Toetzek, one of Hyrox founders.
The specific goals of this relay are not clear. However, the primary objective seems to be to increase athlete engagement and raise external awareness of the sport. Hyrox mentions the possibility of bringing in athletes from other sports, national and international levels, and Olympic athletes but without imposing it. They also state that the mixed Relay Championships offer an entirely open race, where every team – consisting of experts for specific workouts – has a chance to win the title.
This open space creates diverse opportunities and interpretations. The competition between different teams will be enjoyable to observe.
The second step of the process was to select the captains for the national team. The majority of them were either elite-level athletes or former elite athletes. In some cases, individuals were chosen based on their experience as athletes or coaches, likable personalities, recognition by fellow athletes, or knowledge of the sport’s dynamics and race strategy. However, I have to be honest and admit that in other cases, they were not the ideal choice or, at least, not my personal choice. But, the focus here is not to analyze that.
As no national federation, championship or ranking is in place, no standard eligibility criteria are defined. Therefore, deciding who will be racing for Portugal is entirely up to me.
Throughout my life, I have always been an assertive and transparent leader who values righteousness. I have been leading platoons since I was 13-14 years old in a military boarding school, and I have been responsible for making life-changing decisions all my life in my job as a Police Unit commander. This decision is just another one to add to the list, and it is a challenging but fun one.
Upon being given the opportunity, I have devised what I think is a reasonable, coherent, and captivating method that benefits both the athletes and the sport. And, especially for PORTUGAL.
I had a few options to consider, some of which were easier than others. I could have chosen to select the top two male and female HYROX PROl athletes of the season, or I could have sought out 800m track athletes or short-distance triathletes and trained them in skiing or rowing. Since no criteria were imposed, any reasonable criteria are valid.
Although some may choose to take that route, I have decided not to do so.
About me
I have been working as an endurance and CrossFit coach for many years. Over the past few years, I have been preparing most of the top Hyrox national athletes. As a multi-sport, hybrid athlete, I have competed in high-level competitions for over two decades. I am proud to be the only male Elite Portuguese athlete and the only Iberian to have participated in the Elite 15 World Championships with 2 Top 10 finishes.
I hold two world records: Open Men AG and Team Mixed Relay with Daniela Couto (POR), Diogo Freitas (POR), and Maria Fécik (CAN).
1. Eligibility criteria
After establishing the strategy and structure, I have set specific requirements that athletes must meet in order to be considered for selection. These requirements may take into account factors such as their proficiency, competition results, physical fitness, discipline, and level of commitment. You can find a detailed list of these criteria at the end of the article.
2. Scout for Athletes
I will then search for talented athletes and consider recommendations from coaches, analysts, and other athletes (but logical ones).
In the first stage, 5 men and 5 women will be pre-selected.
3. Performance Evaluation
Assess athletes based on their performance in relevant competitions. Look for individual skills that can help build a fast and balanced team.
This evaluation may also include other soft skills like teamwork and attitude.
4. Training Camps and in-person assessment
Organise training camps where pre-selected athletes can showcase their abilities and interact with coaches and other team members. These camps also allow coaches to assess athletes in a focused environment.
5. Team Chemistry
Consider the compatibility of athletes both on and off the rox zone.
This is not a team sport; nevertheless, it is essential to select athletes who can work well together and complement each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
Coach’s Decision:
Ultimately, as the national team coach/captain, I will have the final say in choosing the squad. I will consider all relevant factors, including performance, team dynamics, and strategic requirements for the specific competition.
Preparation: After selecting the team, the focus will be on preparing the athletes individually for the competition through specific plans and sessions to build readiness and to take the best out of the individual potential.
Support and Resources
Providing the national team with the necessary equipment, resources, and financial assistance is essential to maximize their chances of success in the competition. Seeking sponsors will help achieve this goal. All assistance will be welcome!
By following these steps and maintaining a transparent and fair selection process, we expect to assemble a national team that proudly represents the country and competes at the highest level in the sport of Hyrox.
One of our goals is to prepare for the future and keep our eyes on the horizon.
SPECIFIC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Hyrox Sport Background and Connection
- Athletes qualified for the World Champs (Individual or Doubles); or
- Athletes that have raced at least 3 Hyrox races this season. At least one in the PRO category.
Individual Qualities
- Portuguese nationality and training/living in Portugal
- Positive Mindset, Attitude and Fair Play
- Team spirit: solidarity, communication sense of unity, togetherness, and a strong sense of camaraderie, effective communication, and a willingness to work together towards the common goal.
- Doping free athletes. (Every athlete involved must sign a document affirming they have not used PEDs.)
Availability & Commitment
- Commitment to the task and the sport of Hyrox;
- Availability and will to participate both in the race and preparation camps;
Performance Indicators
- Ability to race fast and push hard on the workouts;
- Men: Run sub 3´/km straight into sub 3´20/km Ski and/or row;
- Women: Run sub 3´25/km straight into sub 2´ sled push and/or 100 unbroken WB;
- Specific characteristics (to build a balanced and fast team);
Other relevant factors with impact performance like if the athlete is competing on Sunday (Doubles) at a specific time.
Please note that Hyrox will not provide support to any team. The athletes are responsible for travel arrangements, accommodation, equipment, etc. However, as a team captain, I can establish partnerships with potential sponsors. If you know of anyone or any brand interested in supporting the PT National team, please do not hesitate to contact us.
This is a call to all Portuguese athletes and sports enthusiasts to come together and make this challenge a positive and enjoyable experience. The request is simple: let’s be positive constructive, and offer active help during this process. We must put aside our differences and rivalries and support the green and red team! We may not have the fanciest equipment, but we will have the blood red and the hope green, and we will proudly represent PORTUGAL! Will you join us?