WFP Brings a Fresh Format to the Competition Scene
The World Fitness Project (WFP) launched its inaugural event in Indianapolis, bringing a new level of excitement to the competitive fitness landscape. Featuring 20 signed professional athletes per gender and a slew of hopeful challengers, the first event of the 2025 WFP tour showcased intensity, drama, and a cutting-edge format that is already reshaping the approach to preparation and competition in elite fitness.
This isn’t just another fitness competition; it’s a reimagining of what competitive fitness can offer. The structure is designed for long-term development and includes three tour stops, with Indianapolis marking the beginning of the season. Each stop features a total of 30 athletes—20 professionals and an additional 10 challengers who are vying for their chance at greatness through open qualification spots.
Unlike traditional competitions that often function as a “one-and-done” format, WFP encourages athletes to accumulate points across the different tour stops. This innovative episodic structure allows spectators to follow their favorite competitors throughout the year, paving the way for fresh rivalries and compelling narratives.
“There’s a lot of excitement just that it feels fresh,” said seasoned competitor Pat Vellner. “Everybody wants to take a pro card, and nobody wants to lose one. It makes it compelling.”
Danielle Brandon: Audacious, Emotional, Dominant
Among the prominent figures at the event, Danielle Brandon stood out. Known for her high-energy and genuine approach, she captivated the audience with her performance and fiery personality. Her magnetism drew viewers in, defying expectations.
“I’m not afraid to just be an athlete and be a competitive athlete. I’ve been that way my whole life,” Brandon expressed. “Screw the haters.”
During the competition, she showcased her athleticism by dynamically adjusting her strategy mid-workout, leading to a first-place finish in her heat. “She’ll have one event where she just puts on a show,” noted a close coach. “It’s just a moment.”
Veteran Leadership: Pat Vellner Remains the Gatekeeper
With over a decade in the competitive arena, Pat Vellner showed that age is just a number. Despite facing injuries and personal challenges, his veteran insight and tactical thinking kept him in contention.
“Reality is, the guys are really sharp right now because they’ve been competing all year,” Vellner acknowledged. “It’s frustrating, but sometimes a punch in the teeth is a good reminder.”
Vellner’s performances had their ups and downs. He celebrated a personal record on his split jerk—lifting an impressive 376 lbs, his best since 2017—while also experiencing some early event missteps. “I’m not the guy with the clean run,” Vellner admitted. “I’m going to break some eggs, rebound, and finish strong.”
A Consistent Climb
Despite a slow start, Vellner demonstrated his ability to stay resilient. “One thing I’m good at is washing it away and saying, ‘we have to take the next at-bat and swing,’” he reflected, reinforcing his determination to improve.
Challengers and Opportunity: A Pro Card Is Within Reach
The WFP has introduced an exciting Challenger division, aimed at athletes who narrowly missed out on a professional bid. They compete in similar workouts with slightly modified standards. The standout performances within this group can earn temporary pro cards for the next event, with a pathway to full professional status for the upcoming season.
WFP Director of Sport and former Games athlete Will Morad noted, “If you’re an up-and-coming athlete trying to make this a career, it gives you the path.” With the competition intensifying, established pros must also adapt or risk losing their coveted spots. “Everybody’s gunning for your spot,” Merod stated. “You can’t slack.”
Workout Intensity and Real-Time Strategy
The event featured six challenging workouts that ranged from endurance activities, including running and ring work, to strength tests like sled pushes and yoke carries, culminating in gymnastics and max lifts. The intensity favored well-rounded athletes who understood the importance of pacing.
Brandon achieved a second-place overall finish through calculated pacing and gritty finishes, while Vellner experienced mixed results but showcased brilliance with his PR lift and top performance on rope climbs.
Beyond the Floor: Community and Athlete Impact
The WFP is more than just about who finishes first. Athletes engaged with local gyms, coached CrossFit classes, and had a memorable day at the famed Indy 500 Speedway. For Brandon, it was a particularly heartwarming experience as she encountered gym owners who recalled being inspired to join CrossFit after witnessing her compete years ago.
“The aspirational component, the connection—that magic is back,” Morad added. This spirit of connection resonated with the athletes as well; Vellner reflected with honesty and Brandon lit up with contagious energy, sharing the pride they felt despite the challenges.
Danielle Brandon’s Breakout Sets the Tone
At the end of the day, Brandon’s second-place finish not only provided momentum but also made her hungrier for the next competitions. “I’m excited to keep training… It can only go up from here,” she stated. “This was a great first start.”
What’s Next for the WFP?
The next stop on the WFP tour is set for Mesa, with anticipation building as athletes gear up for more points and pro cards on the line. The final event will take place in Copenhagen, setting the stage for continued evolution and increased pressure on athletes to adapt and deliver under the spotlight.
The WFP stands poised to become a model for growth—combining innovative structures with the spontaneity of competition while fostering deeper connections between athletes and fans. As Vellner put it: “I’ve had more great weekends than bad ones. But when a tough one hits, you learn a lot. And I’m not done learning yet.”