Cole Sager recently shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, revealing that he will no longer compete as an athlete in the CrossFit Games season. In his own words, he stated, “This isn’t a retirement post, this is more like a I’ll see you around post,” signaling a new chapter in his life.
Career Highlights and Record Achievements
Sager first graced the CrossFit Games stage in 2014 after clinching the title at the North West Regional, ultimately finishing 17th in his inaugural Games appearance. Over the next decade, he carved out a legacy, securing three Top 10 finishes, with his most impressive performance coming in 2016 when he finished 5th overall.
Known as the ‘comeback kid,’ Sager often defied the odds at various Regional and Semifinal events. He entered the final day of competitions multiple times facing elimination, only to rally and secure qualification for the CrossFit Games. One standout comeback occurred in 2016 when he began Day 3 sitting in 9th place, but after emerging victorious in the final event, he clinched a 5th place finish.
Statistics and Performance Analytics
According to Apollo Performance Analytics, Sager completed his career with an impressive 13 event wins, 131 top 10 finishes, and two major competition victories: the 2014 North West Regional and the 2021 West Coast Classic (Semifinal).
Life Beyond the Competition Floor
Throughout his illustrious 11-year competitive career, Sager has witnessed significant personal transformations off the competition floor as well. In 2014, he married his wife, Genasee, shortly after his debut at the Games. The couple welcomed their first child in 2021, followed by the birth of their second child in late 2023.
A Shift in Focus
Although Sager finished 96th in the world during the 2025 CrossFit Open, his retirement comes as no surprise to many in the community. In June 2023, he transitioned into the role of Elite Athlete Head Coach at CompTrain, initially managing both coaching and competing. After two years balancing these responsibilities, Sager has made the decision to retire from competition.
Congratulations are in order for Cole Sager as he closes this significant chapter in his CrossFit journey, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire many.