The CrossFit community was rocked by tragedy on Thursday morning as Serbian competitor Lazar Dukic tragically lost his life while competing in a swimming event at Marine Creek Lake in Fort Worth, Texas. The 28-year-old athlete’s untimely death has left the entire CrossFit world in mourning.
CrossFit CEO Don Faul expressed deep sadness during a news conference following the incident, stating that they were working closely with authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding Dukic’s death. The Tarrant County medical examiner’s office confirmed the athlete’s identity but had not yet determined the cause of death.
The Fort Worth Fire Department was called to the scene around 8 a.m. after reports of a participant in the water who had not resurfaced. Despite efforts by safety personnel on site, Dukic could not be located. The event, which included a 3.5-mile run followed by an 800-meter swim, drew an estimated 10,000 spectators and participants.
Eyewitness Kaitlin Pritchard recounted seeing Dukic and other swimmers exhibiting signs of fatigue during the event. While lifeguards on paddleboards were present, no immediate rescue attempts were made. Pritchard expressed disbelief that Dukic was not reachable given the circumstances.
The CrossFit Games, established in 2007, aim to identify the fittest athletes globally through a series of challenging events. The competition changes annually, with details often kept under wraps until the last minute. Faul emphasized the tight-knit nature of the CrossFit community, likening it to a family, and pledged support for Dukic’s loved ones and fellow athletes during this difficult time.
Dukic, who was ranked third in Serbia and 88th worldwide, had shown promise in previous games, finishing ninth in his debut year and climbing the ranks in subsequent seasons. His dedication and talent had earned him respect within the CrossFit community, making his passing all the more devastating.
As the investigation into Lazar Dukic’s death continues, the CrossFit community mourns the loss of a talented athlete and cherished member. The tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in competitive sports and the importance of prioritizing safety measures to prevent such heartbreaking events in the future.