The 2024 CrossFit Games have confirmed that the competition will proceed following the heartbreaking news of athlete Lazar Dukic’s passing during an event on the opening day in Texas. His death, which occurred while he was swimming at Fort Worth’s Marine Creek Lake, has cast a shadow over the event.
Details of the Incident
Lazar Dukic, a 28-year-old competitor from Serbia, tragically died during a swim event that comprised a 3.5-mile run followed by an 800-meter swim. Emergency services were dispatched when Dukic, who was among the front-runners, did not complete the swimming portion. Sadly, he was later found deceased, and the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified him as the victim. The exact cause of death has not yet been confirmed.
Organizers’ Response to the Tragedy
In the wake of this tragedy, all subsequent events scheduled for the first day were temporarily put on hold. However, the organizers quickly announced that the Games would continue the following day, paying tribute to Dukic’s legacy. A statement released by the CrossFit Games honored Dukic, describing him as “one of our sport’s most talented competitors” who was “fiercely competitive, incurably joyful and uncommonly kind.”
A Dedication to Lazar Dukic
The organizers expressed their collective grief, stating, “Today is the saddest day in CrossFit history. We are shattered by the loss of Lazar Dukic along with the entire CrossFit community.” The statement highlighted that Dukic was not just an athlete; he was also a cherished son, brother, and friend to many. His vibrant spirit was noted as a source of light that would be missed by all who knew him.
In recognizing the importance of community, the statement declared, “The only cure for grief is to grieve. And the best way to grieve is together.” The Games will be held in honor of Lazar Dukic, with the next event opening its doors at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 9. The competition is scheduled to run until Sunday, August 11.
