A tragic incident occurred at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth, Texas, during a swimming event for the CrossFit Games. A CrossFit Games athlete drowned on Thursday morning, prompting a suspension of the day’s events. The Fort Worth Police Department has not released the athlete’s identity until the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s report is complete and the family is notified.
Reports have identified Serbian athlete Lazar Đukić, 28, as the athlete who vanished during the swimming portion of the competition. Đukić was last seen towards the end of the 800-meter swim, which was being livestreamed for the 2024 CrossFit Games. The event, which began at 7 a.m., involved a 3½-mile run following the swim.
The CrossFit Games organization expressed deep sadness over the competitor’s death and announced the suspension of the day’s events. They are fully cooperating with authorities and providing support to the athlete’s family during this difficult time. This marks the first time the CrossFit Games have been held in Fort Worth, with athletes from 33 countries competing for the title of „Fittest on Earth.“
The Fort Worth Fire Department recovered the athlete’s body around 10 a.m. after a search operation involving police and fire departments. The event was closely monitored, with helicopters assisting in the search around a buoy in the middle of the lake.
Đukić, a seasoned CrossFit athlete, has competed in multiple CrossFit Games in the past, ranking third in Serbia and 88th overall in the world among men. The tragic incident has cast a shadow over the competition, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the well-being of competitors in such high-intensity events.
As the CrossFit community mourns the loss of one of its own, the focus remains on supporting the athlete’s family and ensuring the safety of all participants. The impact of this tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks involved in competitive sports and the need for stringent safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
The CrossFit Games will continue with heavy hearts, honoring the memory of the fallen athlete and emphasizing the importance of unity and support within the community. Our thoughts are with the athlete’s family, friends, and fellow competitors during this difficult time.