The CrossFit Games in Fort Worth continued on Friday with a somber start as athletes and spectators paid tribute to Lazar Dukic, an athlete who tragically drowned in Marine Creek Lake on the first day of the competition. Thousands from around the world gathered at Dickies Arena for the tribute, where it was announced that the 2024 CrossFit Games would be dedicated to Dukic.
One woman, Lauren Garcia, traveled all the way from Mexico City to Fort Worth to show her support for Dukic. She expressed her shock and sadness at the news of his passing, stating that she had been a follower of his for years. The tribute included a moment of silence and showcased social media posts filled with pictures, videos, and kind words for Dukic and his family.
Lazar Dukic, a 28-year-old athlete from Serbia, lost his life during the swimming portion of individual event No. 1 at the CrossFit Games. Despite the tragic incident, the decision was made to continue the games as planned, with events resuming on Friday and scheduled to run through Sunday. The organization, after consulting with athletes and Dukic’s family, decided to carry on with the competition in his honor.
A GoFundMe page was set up to support Dukic’s family, and it quickly garnered over $310,000 in donations by Friday afternoon. This outpouring of support and generosity from the CrossFit community highlighted the impact Dukic had on those around him.
This year marked the first time the CrossFit Games were held in Fort Worth, a change from previous locations in Carson, California, and Madison, Wisconsin. The event brought together athletes and fans from all over the world to celebrate the sport of CrossFit and honor the memory of Lazar Dukic.
In conclusion, the CrossFit Games in Fort Worth took on a poignant tone as participants and spectators came together to remember Lazar Dukic and continue the competition in his honor. The outpouring of support and generosity shown towards Dukic’s family reflects the tight-knit community that exists within the world of CrossFit. As the games progress, Dukic’s memory will undoubtedly serve as a reminder of the resilience and camaraderie that define the sport.