Jess Pettrow

Jess qualifies via AVG: 1:00:42, and she’s built a reputation as one of the best “stay in the fight” athletes in the women’s field. She doesn’t need to lead early — she needs to stay close and then start collecting people when fatigue hits.

Phoenix storyline: the closer. Jess races with patience, and Phoenix rewards that because the final stations (and Wall Balls) expose anyone who burned matches earlier. She’s also part of the Australian surge that’s forcing the global field to adjust: the Aussies aren’t visitors anymore — they’re threats. If Jess is within striking distance at the bell lap, she can absolutely turn the last 10 minutes into a highlight reel. Don’t be surprised if she finishes higher than where she sits at halfway.

• Already qualified for the HYROX World Championships (Stockholm) — expect her to race aggressively and hunt a Major podium.