CrossFit Games will carry on after athlete’s death, fellow competitor says

FORT WORTH, Texas — A CrossFit Games competitor said the competition will continue after the tragic death of 28-year-old competitor Lazar Đukić, who drowned during Day 1’s first event on Thursday, which included an 800-meter swim. 

The Games’ organizers suspended the remainder of Day 1’s events after the incident. These workouts, combined with others from the weekend, would determine the ‘fittest person on Earth.’ 

Per Crossfit Games competitor Chandler Smith, a meeting was held Thursday afternoon with Games’ athletes to decide if the competition should continue. 

Per the post, the decision was made to proceed with the event. However, CrossFit organizers haven’t officially posted anything yet. 

Smith said in his post that he did not personally agree with the decision to carry on like “nothing happened.”

However, he added, “I couldn’t in good conscience personally advocate for continuing, but I also knew it was wrong to make that decision for the number of athletes who aren’t affected similarly.”

“I’m fortunate enough not to need the prize money from the Games, but I also know that my situation is not a reality for everyone and, as such, did not want to unfairly influence others to lose out on their livelihood.” 

He added, “I will forfeit any prize money I make this year and instead donate to the Đukić family in his honor.”