Dave Leys started doing CrossFit in 1999. In the years that followed, his best Fran time of 2:50 was among the best in the world. Leys was also featured in many of the very first videos to appear on CrossFit.com.
“He’s one of the fuckin’ OGs of CrossFit and just like crushin’ it back in the day,” says Dave Castro, Director of the CrossFit Games. “No one could keep up with him back in the day.”
Today, Leys, also known as “DMFL,” is a videographer at CrossFit Headquarters in Scotts Valley, Calif. More recently, he filled the role of video journalist during Regional season.
“I’m learning that you have to try not to be too worried about hurting someone’s feelings … (and) realize that you’re the eyes and the ears of the world,” Leys says. “That’s a process.”
He adds: “Good videos are hard to make.”
Likewise, approaching 2010 CrossFit Games champion Graham Holmberg as he’s cooling down on a stationary bike after a Central East Regional event isn’t exactly natural.
“That’s not me—to go and talk to people, especially when they don’t want to be talked to,” Leys explains, “it’s something I’m learning … I don’t think I’ll ever get used to that.”
And in the gym? Leys is still training and finished 166th in the Northern California Region of the Open.
Video by Sevan Matossian and Matt Krautstrunk
8min 31sec
HD file size: 327 MB
SD wmv file size: 106 MB
SD mov file size: 46 MB
Please note: For smoother viewing of HD videos, please download the entire file to your hard drive before watching it (right-click and choose Save Link As...).
Additional reading: A Statistical Analysis of the 2008 CrossFit Games by Robert Novy-Marx, published Dec. 8, 2008.
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3 Comments on “The Ex-Fittest Man on Earth”
1
wrote …
First time I have heard of DMFL.
I like him he seems like a cool chill guy.
I really hope him all the best.
hope to see him more at this years games.
he is a interesting character
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2
wrote …
I love you Dave! You are a true warrior and one of the best athletes I have ever known. Thank you for pushing me to be my best during our old Team 6 training days. - Greg.
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3
wrote …
Hey Dave!
It was great meeting you at CrossFit Amundson. Thank you for all of your help with taping our workout.
Also, Best of luck with competing and with CrossFit Media.
Godspeed!
George
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