FORT WORTH, Texas — The CrossFit Games 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.'
In a statement, CrossFit Games confirmed the competition would go on.
"After careful thought and many conversations internally, with athletes, and with Lazar Đukić’s family, it’s been decided that the CrossFit Games will continue throughout the remainder of the weekend at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas," the statement read.
According to event organizers, a special tribute will honor Lazar Đukić at 10 a.m. Friday, before the day's events.
In an Instagram post, CrossFit Games competitor Chandler Smith said 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."
In a statement to WFAA, CEO of CrossFit Don Faul said an investigation has been launched into Đukić'd death.
“The safety of our community is of paramount concern to CrossFit, and we have rigorous protocols in place for each event at the CrossFit Games. We have initiated an investigation, which will include an independent third-party review of yesterday’s tragic event. We will share information as appropriate," Faul said.
Former CEO of CrossFit Dave Castro expressed his condolences to Đukić’s family in a video online.
“It’s been an incredibly difficult day with the incident today with Lazar, and I’m mourning just like our community is. Just like the family is. And trying to focus on what we can do for them and how we can make it better with what we’re able to do with this small thing we have,” Castro said.