15th Annual MURPH Challenge at CrossFit864 Honors Fallen Heroes
May 27, 2024
On Memorial Day, CrossFit864 in Clinton hosted its 15th annual MURPH Challenge, a tradition that started the first year founders Jay and Janice Long launched their gym. A group of 35 dedicated participants gathered to take on the grueling workout.
The Murph is a CrossFit tradition that honors the memory of U.S. Navy SEAL Lt. Michael Murphy, who heroically gave his life in Afghanistan on June 28, 2005. The MURPH workout, introduced as a CrossFit Hero workout on August 18, 2005, has become a cornerstone event for the CrossFit community and athletes worldwide. Each year on Memorial Day, thousands of CrossFit gyms program the MURPH workout as a tribute to Lt. Murphy and all who have served.
The challenging workout includes a 1-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 air squats, and another 1-mile run.
The Alpha version of the workout is completed while wearing a 20-pound weighted vest or body armor. Two participants embraced this extra challenge – Tara Craig, SC Highway Patrol Major Divisions of Strategic Services and Planning, and John Philibert, retired Army veteran currently employed as a civilian at Fort Jackson.
CrossFit864 owners Janice and Jay Long
Janice Long, co-founder of CrossFit864, expressed her pride in the community’s commitment to the event. “MURPH is more than just a workout for us; it’s a way to honor the incredible bravery and sacrifice of Lt. Murphy and all those who gave all for our freedom. Seeing our members push through the pain and fatigue is truly inspiring.”
As the last mile was completed and the final pull-ups were counted, the sense of camaraderie and respect was palpable. The 15th annual MURPH Challenge at CrossFit864 was a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our service members and the enduring strength of the community that comes together to remember them.
