Remembrance of Will Powell, Four-Time CrossFit Games Champion

Last updated on January 8th, 2025

Life and Legacy of Will Powell

On January 5, after more than seven years battling cancer, four-time CrossFit Games champion Will Powell passed away.

Powell was a mainstay in the Masters CrossFit Games divisions for a decade, winning four titles along the way.

• He won the men’s 50-54-year-old division in 2014 and 2015, the 55-59-year-old division in 2016, and the 60-64-year-old division in 2021.
• Powell’s last CrossFit Games appearance was in 2022, five years into his battle with lung cancer. At the age of 62, he placed fifth.
• In 2023, Powell underwent yet another cancer surgery followed by chemotherapy and still went on to compete one last time in the 2024 CrossFit Open.

What They’re Saying

Everyone who competed against Powell described him the same way: humble, genuine, and a kind person who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

• “He had a quick laugh, was humble, and did not take himself too seriously…Will was the epitome of down to earth, despite his accomplishments,” Dave Hardie, a close friend and fellow CrossFit athlete, said.
• Four-time Masters Games competitor Del Lafountain described Powell this way: “Will was larger than life. His demeanor was unlike anyone I’ve ever competed with. His genuine care for those around him was always evident.”
• Carl Giuffre, who placed second to Powell at the 2021 Games, added: “Will was my inspiration to go to the Games. I have known him since 2012, and when I finally competed against him in 2019, I was shocked at how humble he was. He was the most gracious and humble competitor I ever had the pleasure of competing against. I miss him a lot.”

Competing Against a Legend

Those who competed with Powell also remembered how dominant he was on the competition floor year after year.

One memory that stands out for Lafountain came at the 2015 CrossFit Games during a workout with running and snatches.

• “I remember positioning myself so I could watch him and try to keep pace,” Lafountain said. “It was mind-boggling to see how he looked so slow and controlled yet moved so incredibly fast. He had this innate ability to find and maintain the perfect speed, and he always knew exactly what that speed was. He was exceptional at it. The great ones make it look easy, and Will was the best there ever was.”

A Life of Inspiration

For Gantz, it goes all the way back to 2014 when he was a rookie and Powell was a veteran.

• “It was very difficult and embarrassing for me as I struggled in last place from Day 1. In the final event, I was [still] in last place and he was [in first]. He treated me not as a scrub but as an equal, which amazed me,” Gantz remembered.

Conclusion

Rest in peace, Will Powell — you will be missed.

FAQs

Q: What was Will Powell’s CrossFit career like?

A: Will Powell was a four-time CrossFit Games champion and a mainstay in the Masters CrossFit Games divisions for a decade, winning four titles along the way.

Q: What was Will Powell’s impact on the CrossFit community?

A: Everyone who competed against Powell described him as humble, genuine, and a kind person who made a lasting impact on everyone he met.

Q: What was Will Powell’s legacy?

A: Powell’s legacy will be remembered for his incredible CrossFit career, his humility, and his kindness towards others. He inspired thousands with his example and will be deeply missed.