After a season and journey that has included more than a dozen events that have challenged athletes around the world and inspired millions of fans, it has all come down to this. The final Sanctional event is upon us. For the athletes who will be competing, this is the final opportunity to qualify for the 2019 CrossFit Games. 

The Women’s World Cup is already taking place in France, but now there is another big competition that has the world’s attention. The French Throwdown is taking place June 28-30 in Montigny-le-Bretonneux, and for the men and women looking to qualify for Madison, this is the last chance to dance. Whatever they have to give must be left on the field here. That means there is sure to be a lot of intense competition and the fans who will be watching are in for some serious action. 

Here is what you need to know about the final Sanctional for the 2019 season.

History of the Event

This is the eighth year the French Throwdown has been held. Past winners of this event include Willy Georges and Simon Mantyla for the men and Jacqueline Dahlstrom and Sara Armanius on the women’s side. Many people who are new to CrossFit competition may not be as familiar with this event as they are others, but it is one of the bigger events in Europe and has had some great competitions in its history. That said, it’s obvious that the stakes have never been higher than they are now.

Online Qualifiers & Prizes

Qualifiers gave athletes an opportunity to earn their way into this event. Willy Georges, the 2018 men’s winner of this event, took the top spot for the men. American Carrie Beamer took first place on the women’s side. As for the elite teams, Team RomWod Meat Squad emerged victorious with Nova3 Misfits coming in second place. All the winners will join the rest of the field in France and hope to continue their good fortunes so they can qualify for the main event in Madison, Wisconsin.

Aside from the qualification to the Games and prestige that comes with winning the event, the individuals that finish first will also win €8,000 ($9,118). The elite team winners will leave a little richer too with a financial incentive of €4,000 ($4,559).

Athletes to Watch

Willy Georges is obviously someone you should keep an eye on for this event because he is both a past champion and winner of the online qualifier. As the France Open Champion, his ticket to the Games is already punched but what better way to go into the Games than with a win? Mitchel Stevenson is another favorite since he finished 99th in the Open and has been to the Games before. He came in 32nd at the French Throwdown last year.

Cedric Lapointe is another one to watch. After his loss at Lowlands, he is on the hunt for redemption and a qualification. Remember that you don’t have to win to earn that spot to Madison. You only have to be the highest finisher out of those who have yet to qualify.

As for the women’s side of the field, Missy Herman should be considered top contender as well as Alison Scudds. Scudds is an alternate for Team Central Beasts, which is already qualified to the Games in the teams division. Don’t forget about Beamer either. Since she won the qualifier, attention should be paid to her as the event progresses.

How to Watch and Keep Up

The French Throwdown website has a link that takes you to their YouTube page, where you can catch live coverage during the event. They do also have a Facebook page and will likely be updating the happenings on their @frenchthrowdown Instagram profile. You can also follow the hashtag #FrenchThrowdown. Of course, check back with FloElite for a recap of what took place in France if you’re not able to follow the action live.

Roger Lockridge is from Lewisburg, West Virginia. His work has been featured on numerous platforms and magazines in the fitness industry over the last 10 years. You can find him on Twitter and Instagram @rocklockridge.