By WU VUIDE
KOTA KINABALU: Fitness, teamwork and community spirit took centre stage at the inaugural Rhino Pair Mayhem (RPM) 2026.
RhinoBox hosted the two-day functional fitness competition, which brought together 80 athletes in 40 teams.
Head coach Faizal Afdal founded RhinoBox 10 years ago. It trains athletes for CrossFit, Hyrox-style events and ultra-trail challenges.
Jess, the management representative, worked with Game Director Rimothy Lau and Game Master Dominic Mah. They said RPM 2026 introduced a fresh format based on hybrid functional fitness, with safety, inclusivity and shared sporting experiences as priorities.
The competition was open to men and women in the open and scale divisions. It tested teamwork and all-round athleticism through six challenges.
On the first day, teams tackled three events. The Keg Relay tested strength and speed, while Tug of War with a Twist tested strategy and timing. RhinoRox, a HYROX-inspired hybrid endurance race, combined running with workout stations.
On the second day, athletes faced three more events. The ladder event increased the workload with each round, followed by a high-intensity Metcon, or metabolic conditioning workout.
The Final WOD closed the competition, with the top three teams in each category competing for the title.
Local businesses and community partners added to the event through their sponsorships.
The top teams in each category received cash prizes and vouchers from partners.
Rimothy Lau, who has revitalised RhinoBox, aims to expand RPM in the coming years, with wider community participation and stronger sponsorship support.
Newcomers of all ages and fitness levels are welcome, including students who qualify for special membership rates.
Athletes celebrate after completing the fitness competition.
