An athlete died while participating in a swimming event at the CrossFit Games in Texas, organizers said.
Lazar Dukic, 28, of Serbia, was competing in Marine Creek Lake near downtown Fort Worth Thursday morning when he disappeared under the water and failed to wake up, Fort Worth emergency officials said.
Emergency services were called at around 08:00 local time (14:00 BST) and the body was recovered an hour later.
The sports statement reads: “We are saddened by the passing of Lazar Dukic.”
“Our hearts go out to all of Lazar’s family, friends, and fellow athletes.
“Out of respect for the family and to cooperate with the Fort Worth Police Department, we will share updates when possible.”
Other events on Thursday have been canceled and organizers are “fully cooperating with the authorities”, a separate statement said.
The search for Mr. Dukic’s body involved a team of divers from the Fort Worth Police Department as well as drones, reported BBC affiliate CBS News, citing local officials.
CrossFit CEO Don Faul said Mr Dukic was a “loved and respected” member of the fitness community.
“There are many people suffering in society right now,” he said.
“Many people are crying. We want to do everything possible to support the community, feed the family.”
He also said that a “fully written security plan” was in place and that the security forces had been present during the event.
A crowdfunder to support Mr Dukic’s family which started with a goal of $200,000 (£157,000) has already raised more than $211,000.
The page said Mr Dukic made his debut at the 2021 CrossFit Games after years of playing water polo in his native Serbia.
“Known for his kindness, humor, and support, Lazar brings a cool vibe wherever he goes,” the company said.
“Besides his athletic success, Lazar was caring, humorous and unceasingly supportive of those around him.
The CrossFit Games bio on its website listed Mr. Dukic as the first Serbian CrossFit athlete for the years between 2017 and 2021, and he was ranked third in the country this year.
The CrossFit Games is an annual competition where athletes participate in a variety of events in multiple disciplines, often only to find out what each category will entail soon.
This year’s list started on Thursday and was supposed to be completed on Sunday.
Source link
