The HYROX Men’s Elite 15 final at the 2025 World Championships in Chicago was a masterclass in athleticism, strategy, and heart-stopping drama. German athlete Tim Wenisch emerged victorious, clocking an electrifying 00:53:53 to claim the title, edging out American powerhouse Hunter McIntyre by a mere five seconds in one of the most exhilarating finishes in recent HYROX history. Dylan Scott secured a well-earned third place, solidifying his status among the sport’s elite.
From the starting gun, Hunter McIntyre set a blistering pace, true to his reputation. His aggressive strategy stretched the field early, with his raw power and relentless drive challenging the pack to match his intensity. But Wenisch, the 26-year-old HYROX veteran competing in his 33rd race, executed a flawless game plan. Staying composed through the early stations, he methodically closed the gap, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.
The race reached its climax at the final station — the Wall Balls. With McIntyre mounting a ferocious final push in an unbroken set of 100, whilst Wenisch dug deep only breaking 2 or 3 times for very short breaks to hold off the resurgent American to cross the finish line in 00:53:53.
Wenisch’s split times reveal the precision and versatility behind his victory. His fastest run, a jaw-dropping 2:45 after seven grueling workout stations, showcased his endurance and speed under pressure. Notably, this lap, coming into the Wall Balls, may have been slightly shorter than the standard 1k due to the station’s entrance proximity. Wenisch’s standout performances included a blistering 1,000m row (00:03:50, 1st place) and 100m sandbag lunges (00:03:07, 1st place), demonstrating his ability to excel in the later stages of the race.
Here are Wenisch’s official split times from the Chicago final:
- Run 1: 00:03:58
- 1,000m SkiErg: 00:03:44 (2nd place)
- Run 2: 00:03:24
- 50m Sled Push: 00:02:15 (3rd place)
- Run 3: 00:03:40
- 50m Sled Pull: 00:03:40 (7th place)
- Run 4: 00:03:53
- 80m Burpee Broad Jump: 00:02:40 (3rd place)
- Run 5: 00:03:54
- 1,000m Row: 00:03:50 (1st place)
- Run 6: 00:03:36
- 200m Farmers Carry: 00:01:40 (10th place)
- Run 7: 00:03:59
- 100m Sandbag Lunges: 00:03:07 (1st place)
- Run 8: 00:02:45
- Wall Balls: 00:03:57
For Wenisch, who first competed in HYROX in 2018, this victory marks his first world championship title. “I love it to be first place between two Americans,” Wenisch said post-race, relishing the thrill of triumphing on American soil. His journey from his debut to this crowning achievement underscores his growth as a dominant force in the sport.
The Men’s Elite 15 final had it all: bold tactics, raw power, and a finish that kept spectators on the edge of their seats. Wenisch’s perfectly timed mid race surge, McIntyre’s fearless opening, and Scott’s steady podium finish delivered a race that will be remembered as a defining moment in HYROX history.