Cookstown-based engineering and fabrication specialist Artafex is celebrating after one of its directors secured a place at the prestigious HYROX World Championships in Stockholm, Sweden.

Managing Director Ryan O'Neill will compete against some of the world's leading fitness athletes after qualifying for the global event, which takes place from 18–21 June at Stockholm's Strawberry Arena. The HYROX World Championships bring together elite competitors who have earned qualification through outstanding performances at regional events held throughout the season.

The achievement reflects months of rigorous dedication and training balanced alongside the demands of helping to lead one of Northern Ireland's growing engineering businesses. Founded in Cookstown, Artafex has established a strong reputation for delivering specialist engineering, fabrication, and installation services across a range of industrial sectors. The company noted that the same commitment, discipline, and determination required in business are equally important when preparing to compete on the world stage.

HYROX has rapidly grown into one of the world's most popular fitness racing formats, combining running with a series of functional workout stations designed to test strength, endurance, and mental resilience. Competitors must complete eight separate one-kilometre runs, interspersed with demanding fitness challenges including rowing, sled pushes, sled pulls, burpee broad jumps, and wall balls.

Qualification for the World Championships is highly competitive, with athletes earning places solely through top finishes in their respective divisions and age groups at sanctioned HYROX events around the world.

For Artafex, Ryan's qualification represents both a major personal milestone and an example of the company's internal culture of commitment and continuous improvement. As he prepares to take on the world's best in Stockholm, the entire Artafex team will be following his progress and cheering him on as he represents Northern Ireland and the local business community on the international stage.

For more information about Artafex and its engineering and fabrication services, visit www.artafex.co.uk/