Every great gym has its spirit animals — but at CrossFit 425, ours are real.

Meet Tayo and Oscar, the original CrossFit 425 Bulldogs — loyal, playful, and always ready to greet you with a wag, a shake, or a grin. Officially, they’re the gym’s mascots. Unofficially, they’re family.

Tayo “The Wise One”

If you’ve ever walked into CrossFit 425 and noticed a brindle bulldog soaking up the sunshine, you’ve met Tayo — affectionately known as The Wise One.

Tayo’s favorite activities include finding the perfect sunny patch (even if it’s in the middle of the parking lot), supervising warm-ups from a safe distance, and graciously accepting belly rubs from his adoring fans.

He’s got manners, too — he listens to his dad, Braxton, like a pro and knows better than to wander into gym activity unless properly invited (or bribed with scratches).

Tayo has his own workout routine, which mostly involves jumping on and off plyo boxes — a move that has earned him unofficial CrossFit status. He’s also a social butterfly who gets along with everyone — adults, kids, and other dogs alike (well, except cats… long story).

Bring him a treat and you’ll have a friend for life. Or better yet, try his signature greeting — a handshake, knuckle bump, or even a double high five. Yes, he knows them all.

Oscar “The Young Lad”

Oscar, the white bulldog and Tayo’s brother, was the other half of this inseparable duo. While Tayo was the calm, collected type, Oscar was the playful shadow — always up for adventure, attention, and a good back scratch (preferably several in a row).

He was known around the gym for his charm, curiosity, and tendency to sit directly on your foot until you asked him nicely to move. He loved watching members train, shedding freely while taking in the action, and making sure no one left without a smile.

Oscar had a knack for finding joy in every moment — and spreading it. Though we sadly lost him in March 2017 due to heart complications, his spirit is still very much a part of CrossFit 425. The energy, warmth, and love he brought to the gym live on every day through his big brother Tayo and the community that adored him.

More Than Mascots

Tayo and Oscar weren’t just gym dogs — they embodied the Bulldog spirit that defines CrossFit 425: loyal, determined, and full of heart. Their presence has always reminded us that community comes in all shapes and sizes — and sometimes, with a slobbery grin.

And while no pup could ever replace Oscar, Braxton has shared that one day soon, Tayo will get to play the role of big brother again. Until then, Tayo continues to keep the gym’s energy grounded — one sunbeam nap and one high five at a time.

Stop by and Say Hi

If you’re visiting CrossFit 425 in Bellevue, WA, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by Tayo at the door. He might ask for a pat on the head, or a handshake — but either way, he’ll make you feel right at home.

Because around here, family doesn’t just lift weights — they wag their tails too.