Always Forward CrossFit

AFC Open Athlete Highlight: Wrapping Up the 2026 Open – Long Time Athlete Emily Dixon Partyka (26.3)

As we wrap up the 2026 CrossFit Open, we’re celebrating one last group of athletes who represent what these three weeks are all about.

This week’s Long Time Athlete highlight is Emily Partyka.

What keeps you coming back to the Open each year?
“I love competing, and I like to see how I stack up globally. I played sports in high school and college and having the opportunity to continue competing is a dream. The fact that I’m 42 and still learning new skills is a cherry on top. I put in effort at the gym and it’s fun to see what I can do during the Open.”

How did 26.3 compare to your first Open workout?
“I had no idea what I was getting into with my first Open. No plan, no strategy. I distinctly remember trying to do pull-ups on one of the smoother bars and failing. I may have shed some tears afterward, but I learned from it. Now I have a favorite pull-up bar (that isn’t smooth). With 26.3 I had it all mapped out and had a realistic goal in mind.”

Was there a moment in this workout where you had to dig in mentally?
“Funny you ask that, I actually did 26.3 twice, so I kinda knew how bad it was going to be. I started digging in immediately because I had a goal that I wanted to reach. Adam was judging me and was able to keep me motivated when doubts started sneaking in (thanks, boo!).”

What changes have you noticed in yourself since your early days at AFC?
“More muscles, more friends, more calluses. But for real, I’m so much happier with CF in my life. I’ve gone from doing banded pull-ups to ring muscle ups. Shout out to all the coaches who helped me with ALL the skills!”

What does being part of the Open at Always Forward mean to you at this point in your journey?
“It’s one of my favorite moments of the year. Cheering on my friends brings me so much joy in my life. Witnessing everyone take on the challenge truly makes our gym feel like family. Love you all!”

From first Open nerves to chasing goals and doing workouts twice just because you can. That’s growth.

Nice work in 26.3, Emily 👏

AFC Open Athlete Highlight: Wrapping Up the 2026 Open - Masters Athlete Karen Goodell (26.3)

As we wrap up the 2026 CrossFit Open, we’re celebrating one last group of athletes who represent what these three weeks are all about.

This week’s Masters Athlete highlight is Karen Goodell.

What was your mindset going into 26.3?
“I wanted to do my best, push myself a bit, but not hurt myself. I was a little worried because I had been sick and did not feel as energetic as usual. I felt more confident once I realized that I could perform all of the exercises at the masters RX level.”

What part of the workout played to your strengths?
“I have decent cardiovascular fitness and made quick progress with the burpees through the first two rounds, allowing me to spend more time on the lifts to ensure that I maintained good form.”

What part tested you the most?
“The thrusters were a challenge, especially as I got tired. Increasing the weight in the third round was so difficult. I was running low on energy and starting to see stars by then.”

How has your approach to training changed over the years?
“When I first started CrossFit, I needed two days to recover from each workout. Over the past two years, I have increased the frequency of workouts to three or four times a week and I try to maintain consistency. I appreciate the variety of the workouts and trust that consistent participation will result in a well-rounded fitness routine. Other than that, I just try everything, even if it seems impossible. Sometimes I am surprised by what I can do.”

What does competing in the Open at this stage mean to you?
“I am proud of my first Open because it demonstrates that I have gotten stronger and gained some new skills since starting CrossFit. It gives me confidence that I can stay active into the future. I also enjoy being part of a diverse community of athletes that try hard and support each other.”

Showing up, pushing through, and discovering what you’re capable of. That’s what the Open is all about.

Nice work in 26.3, Karen 👏