Latest news with #RaisingtheBar
7NEWS
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- 7NEWS
Tributes flow for bodybuilder Hayley McNeff after ‘unexpected' death, aged 37
The bodybuilding industry continues to be rocked by the premature deaths of its stars. Pro-bodybuilder Craig Licker (from Massachusetts in the US) died earlier this week at the age of 57, and it was also confirmed just days ago that former US bodybuilding champion Hayley McNeff has died at the age of 37. McNeff reportedly died at her home on August 8, with her obituary saying the young American's death was 'unexpected but peaceful'. 'Hayley was known for her quick wit and constant sense of humour, she had a gift for making those around her laugh and feel welcomed,' the obituary said. 'Her energy and determination was a constant in her life and she always accomplished what she set out to achieve.' 'She treasured her friendships and nurtured strong, lasting relationships with those who knew her best. Hayley will be deeply missed by her parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.' In a statement, her father told 'Hayley was like a beam of light in this world.' He said she had 'boundless energy' and was always determined to achieve whatever she set out to do. 'She set her sights on bodybuilding and fitness and achieved the highest success that sector offered. She loved us and we love Hayley very much, we miss her madly,' he said In 2005 McNeff featured in the 'warts and all' documentary Raising the Bar, a raw, low-budget bodybuilding film that became something of a cult classic within the industry. 'The quest for getting huge will never end,' McNeff said in the documentary. 'There's no limit. I hope there's a day that I'll be able to look in the mirror 100 per cent of the time and be like, 'yeah man, I'm huge'.' Tributes flowed after news of her death was made public. Bodybuilding coach Dave Palumbo said: 'I'm sad to hear of the passing of former woman bodybuilder Hayley McNeff … she left us way too soon. 'She was a good soul, super intelligent and had tremendous potential as a bodybuilder. 'She appeared in David Pulcinella RAISING THE BAR videos back in the day and I was proud to be able to call her a friend. 'Prayers to her family and friends. R.I.P.' Another, Shane Nickerson, was shattered. 'Life will be so hard without you, but all the better because you were here,' he said on social media. 'I had the pleasure of living with Hayley for 7 years across 3 cities. She made such a huge part of who I am today. There was nobody like her. I miss her laugh already. Until we see each other again goofball ❤️' The HeavyMetalLifter Jeff Hennigan said: 'Man that hurts waking up to that. Heart sunk deep. All the late night phone calls joking and drinking talking s*** to each other. The MySpace days too. We always kept up with each other and checked on our depression and overall health since mid 2000s. Great personality and big heart. 21/22 was the last time we talked regularly. Thanks for the memories you beautiful soul. Sleep well.' McNeff retired from bodybuilding and graduated in psychology. McNeff's family are asking people who go to her funeral to donate to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
USA Today
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Hayley McNeff, bodybuilding champ, dies at 37: 'Bright light has left this world'
Hayley McNeff, a prominent bodybuilder during the mid-2000s, has died unexpectedly. She was 37. McNeff died last Friday, Aug. 8, and her funeral will be held Saturday, Aug. 16, according to her obituary. A Massachusetts native, McNeff won several bodybuilding titles throughout her career, including the 2009 East Coast Classic and 2009 NPC Delaware State, according to bodybuilding website RXMuscle. "Such a bright light has left this world too soon," her obituary states. It goes on to say, "Hayley was known for her quick wit and constant sense of humor, she had a gift for making those around her laugh and feel welcomed. Her energy and determination was a constant in her life and she always accomplished what she set out to achieve. She treasured her friendships and nurtured strong, lasting relationships with those who knew her best. Hayley will be deeply missed by her parents, siblings, extended family and friends." More news: Hiker dies after venomous snake bites him at Tennessee state park McNeff was a respected figure in the bodybuilding community In the early aughts, McNeff was featured in the "Raising the Bar" documentary series, in which a film crew provided an inside look into her gym routine as she prepared for the 2009 NPC Delaware State. After winning the 2009 NPC Delaware State and 2009 East Coast Classic, McNeff was cast on the reality television show "Iron Maidens," which was pitched to follow a group of prominent female bodybuilders. However, the series never aired. McNeff attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts. In addition to bodybuilding, she was an accomplished equestrian, board diver, and skier as a child and young adult, her obituary states. Following her bodybuilding career, which peaked in 2009, McNeff pursued graduate studies in psychology to better understand and help others, her obituary states. Greta Cross is a national trending reporter at USA TODAY. Story idea? Email her at gcross@
Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
Champion bodybuilder Hayley McNeff dies ‘unexpectedly' at 37 — but what led to her sudden death? Here's what we know
Hayley McNeff, a decorated bodybuilding champion and fitness influencer, has died at the age of 37. Her death on August 8 was described by her family as 'unexpected but peaceful.' A lifelong athlete, McNeff was remembered for her determination, humor and the strong relationships she built throughout her life. Early life and multi-sport success Born and raised in Concord, Massachusetts, McNeff graduated from Concord-Carlisle High School before earning her bachelor's degree from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. From an early age, she excelled in sports including equestrian competitions, board diving and skiing. These achievements laid the foundation for the dedication she later brought to bodybuilding. Bodybuilding career and achievements As an adult, McNeff pursued bodybuilding and quickly rose through the ranks, winning state titles in Maryland and Delaware. She was also featured in the 2005 documentary Raising the Bar, which explored the competitive bodybuilding world. Known for her discipline and drive, she reached the highest levels of success in the sport before retiring from competition. Life beyond competition Following her bodybuilding career, McNeff shifted focus to academics, working toward a graduate degree in psychology. Her obituary described her as having 'quick wit' and a 'constant sense of humor,' noting her ability to make people feel welcomed and valued. She was recognized for her energy, determination, and commitment to her friendships. The actual reason behind her sudden passing still remains unknown. Tributes and memorial Her father, Dave McNeff, said she 'had boundless energy and was very determined to achieve whatever she set out to do.' Peer bodybuilder Dave Palumbo also paid tribute on Instagram, describing her as 'super intelligent' and a person with 'tremendous potential.' A visitation for McNeff will be held in Wellesley, Massachusetts, on August 16. Her family has requested that donations be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness in her memory. To stay updated on the stories that are going viral follow Indiatimes Trending.
Time of India
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Who is Hayley McNeff? Fitness star and bodybuilding champion passes at 37 sparking tributes
Hayley McNeff, a celebrated bodybuilding champion, nutritionist, and life coach, has passed away unexpectedly at the age of 37, leaving the global fitness community in shock. Known for her relentless determination, radiant personality, and passion for helping others, McNeff's career spanned major competitive wins and an enduring influence off stage. She rose to prominence in the 2000s, earning titles and appearing in the documentary Raising the Bar, which showcased her drive and dedication to the sport. Her sudden death has prompted an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and fans, who remember her as an inspiring force both in fitness and life. Early life and bodybuilding career of Hayley McNeff Hayley McNeff grew up in Concord, Massachusetts, graduating from Concord-Carlisle High School before attending the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Drawn to fitness, she entered the competitive bodybuilding scene in the 2000s, earning state titles in Maryland and Delaware. Former bodybuilder Hayley McNeff passed away peacefully on August 8. Her victory in the 2009 East Coast Classic cemented her reputation as a fierce competitor. McNeff also gained attention through her appearance in the bodybuilding documentary Raising the Bar, where she expressed her limitless drive for physical excellence. Her dedication and perseverance made her a respected figure among both peers and aspiring athletes. Hayley McNeff became a well-known nutritionist After stepping away from the competitive stage, McNeff pursued a graduate degree in psychology. She worked as a nutritionist and life coach, using her experience in fitness and mental wellness to help others achieve their goals. Known for her humour and warm presence, she built strong, lasting relationships with friends, clients, and colleagues. Her father described her as a 'beam of light' with an unstoppable determination to succeed in anything she set her mind to. Hayley McNeff tributes and honours News of McNeff's passing has led to heartfelt tributes across the bodybuilding and fitness community. Coaches, fellow competitors, and fans remembered her as not only a talented athlete but also a supportive friend and mentor. And just...'suddenly'😪💔*Hayley McNeff-37-USA*US Bodybuilding Champion, won several competitions, including the 2009 East Coast Classic, and featured in a bodybuilding documentary.*August 8, 2025 *Tragically, Hayley died suddenly and unexpectedly "but peacefully (⁉️)"… Her family has requested donations to the National Alliance on Mental Illness in her honour, highlighting her commitment to both physical and mental health. Hayley McNeff's legacy will live on in the lives she touched, the athletes she inspired, and the example she set for pursuing one's passions without limits.
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
National bodybuilding star Hayley McNeff died at 37; here's what family said
Champion bodybuilder and fitness influencer, Hayley McNeff, has died unexpectedly at the age of 37. According to her obituary published in she passed away at her home in Sudbury, Massachusetts on August 8, and her death was 'unexpected but peaceful.' A native of Massachusetts, she graduated from UMass Amherst, and later became a nutritionist and life coach, besides being a nationally ranked bodybuilder. US bodybuilding champion Hayley McNeff has died at the age of 37.(instagram/@hayleysmash) Family's statement In an exclusive statement to PEOPLE Magazine, McNeff's family spoke out about her sudden death: 'Hayley was like a beam of light in this world. She had boundless energy and was very determined to achieve whatever she set out to do. She set her sights on bodybuilding and fitness and achieved the highest success that sector offered. She loved us and we love Hayley very much, we miss her madly.' McNeff grew up in Concord, Massachusetts, attended Concord-Carlisle High School and graduated from University of Massachusetts, Amherst with a Bachelor's degree in Arts. Her obituary further describes her as 'A lifelong athlete', who 'excelled as an accomplished equestrian, a talented board diver and skier as a youth and young adult.' She developed her passion for bodybuilding in adulthood, going on to pursue a graduate degree in psychology, fueled by the need to understand people better. Also Read | Who was Jarrod Gelling? Husband of female bodybuilder 'She Hulk' found dead with self-inflicted stab wounds A decorated bodybuilder McNeff's obituary describes her as a 'US Bodybuilding Champion during her career' who has also achieved state titles in Maryland and Delaware. A report from PEOPLE Magazine states that she was featured in a documentary about the competitive world of professional bodybuilding in 2005, called Raising the Bar. Hayley's determination and love for her work is highlighted in the documentary - 'The quest for getting huge will never end,' she remarks, while talking about her career. 'There's no limit. I hope there's a day that I'll be able to look in the mirror 100% of the time and be like, 'Yeah man, I'm huge.'' Also read | Jackie Bezos cause of death: How did Jeff Bezos' mother die? All on Lewy Body Dementia battle She will be remembered for her 'quick wit and constant sense of humor,' and a talent for making others feel warmth and joy. Her obituary continues, 'She treasured her friendships and nurtured strong, lasting relationships with those who knew her best. Hayley will be deeply missed by her parents, siblings, extended family, and friends.'
