NRCA Seniors Participate in the CHAD 1000X

By Taylor Mills, Shield Editor 

On Feb. 17, a group of NRCA seniors gathered in the weight room to take part in the CHAD 1000X workout. This nationally recognized CrossFit Hero workout is to honor Navy SEAL Senior Chief Chad Wilkinson by doing 1,000 box step-ups either individually or with partners for time. Participants could also modify the weight of the rucksack or choose not to use any. 

Senior Lily Kate Wilkinson said, “The CHAD 1000X was created for my uncle (Dad’s brother) after he died in 2018 of suicide due to brain injury as a Navy SEAL for more than 21 years. It was created to bring awareness to the suicide epidemic within the elite military community.” 

The 1000 box steps and a 45-pound pack were the usual when Wilkinson trained for his climbing expeditions. While honoring Chad Wilkinson, the challenge also has become a way for the nation to show support to the American veterans and their silent struggles.  

“Chad did these box step-ups to prepare for mountain climbing. He did this often, and his last climb was Mount Aconcagua, the highest mountain in the Americas. So, when my Aunt Sara was thinking of a way to honor him, it seemed like the perfect fit,” Lily Kate said. 

Chad’s wife, Sara Wilkinson, also created The Step Up Foundation to change the story regarding veteran suicides. The organization looks to spread awareness of effects of blast wave injury, traumatic brain injuries, and post-traumatic stress. They honor veterans and their sacrifices to our country, as well as raise funds to support the research of these specific injuries.  

Lily Kate said, “Chad was an elite Navy SEAL, a husband, a father, a brother, and much more. Today, the world honors him through the CHAD 1000X, which became a CrossFit Hero Workout of the Day. We are so thankful for everyone that continues to honor his memory and bring awareness to end the suicide epidemic.”