Brooke Wells Talks About Injury Preventing 2023 CrossFit Games Qualification: “I Am Heartbroken”
The 2023 CrossFit Semifinals started last weekend, as it took place in two regions at once. Out of the two, the 2023 CrossFit North America East Semifinal was the one that stood out. This Semifinal featured an incredible roster, but it had also produced an immense loss for the remainder of the season, since Brooke Wells was unable to advance further due to some unfortunate happenings.
Brooke Wells is a veteran of the sport, as she has taken part in the past eight consecutive CrossFit Games editions. Brooke is now extremely saddened by the fact that her streak ended.
“All I’ve known for the past 8 years is gearing up for the CrossFit Games every summer. The reality that I won’t be doing that this year is an extremely tough pill to swallow. I am heartbroken. Devastated. I feel embarrassed. A little lost.”
While announcing the circumstances of her performance, Brooke Wells revealed that she was unable to perform to her full potential because of an injury. Specifically, Brooke tore her Plantar Fascia on the first event, but still endured the pain until the end.
Plantar Fascia is a connective tissue in the heel of the foot. So, a tear produces sharp pain during any movement. The recovery process can take months to heal properly.
“From the moment the competition started I was hit with some unexpected challenges. During the run in event 1, I tore my plantar fascia. I could barely walk after the event and I had the choice to either fight, or throw in the towel. I am very proud of myself for continuing to show up, when withdrawing would’ve been much easier.”
Related: CrossFit Athlete Brooke Wells Trains With Buttery Bros While Recovering From An Elbow Injury
Brooke Wells has had a very difficult time with injuries, as she also injured her elbow at the 2021 CrossFit Games less than two years ago. Following that injury, Brooke needed reconstructive surgery and multiple months of recovery before getting back in the gym. Being an active athlete, Brooke Wells is facing the challenge of undergoing several more months of recovery, which can be quite difficult for her.
Although Brooke Wells did not qualify for the 2023 CrossFit Games, her sister, Sydney Wells, has secured her spot for the first time ever. So, Brooke revealed that she is still thrilled for her sister’s success despite encountering setbacks of her own.
“In the midst of my own heartbreak, I am thankful I get to celebrate & support my sister who has just qualified for her first time. Even when we are disappointed in ourselves, we can still root for others.”
Sydney Wells took seventh place at the 2023 CrossFit North America East Semifinal, while the top 11 qualified. This makes it even sad for Brooke Wells, as she was just out of the top 11, placing 14th, just seven points behind eleventh.
However, Brooke Wells has now lost all chances of qualifying for the 2023 CrossFit Games. This means that she won’t appear in the greatest CrossFit competition for the first time since 2015. During her 8-year streak, Brooke’s best placing at the Games was fifth, managing to accomplish the feat in both 2020 and 2022.
Related: Ricky Garard Out of the 2023 CrossFit Season Following Shoulder Injury
Despite the injury, Brooke Wells remains resilient and optimistic about the future. Her primary focus now is on proper recovery and preparation for the next season. However, she will still be missed at the 2023 CrossFit Games, alongside fellow women Tia-Clair Toomey, Kara Saunders, Mal O’Brien, and Haley Adams.
