A 12-year-old boy from Dinnington has been crowned a World Champion after representing Team UK at the 2025 Functional Fitness (CrossFit) World Championships in Lithuania.

ExCo

Mac Hopkins, a pupil at Dinnington High School, competed against the very best young athletes from around the world in the international event, which brought together around 400 competitors from 27 countries.

In Mac’s age category, 17 athletes took part — each one the reigning national champion from their own country — making his gold-medal win an exceptional achievement.

Mac delivered a personal best In the last event strength to take the gold medal.

placeholder image — Mac delivered a personal best In the last event strength to take the gold medal.

Mac has been training in functional fitness for two years, working out at The Forge Functional Fitness in Ecclesfield, Sheffield. Earlier this year, he claimed a silver medal at the European Championships, before going one step further on the world stage by securing gold.

The championships were held over two demanding days of competition, with athletes tested across endurance, skills and strength events. The title was ultimately decided in the final strength event, where Mac delivered a personal best performance under pressure to secure victory for Team UK.

Alongside his success in functional fitness, Mac is also a committed rugby player for Sheffield RUFC Under-13s, where his fitness, determination and attitude have made him a key member of the squad.

Mac’s achievement has been celebrated by his school, coaches and the wider Dinnington community, who have followed his journey with pride.

Winning a world title at such a young age marks a remarkable milestone and highlights the dedication, discipline and work ethic required to compete — and succeed — at the highest international level.