CrossFit Faces Backlash After Competitor’s Tragic Death
CrossFit recently announced its plans to address safety concerns following the tragic drowning death of competitor Lazar Ðukić during the multi-sport CrossFit Games. However, the announcement has been met with skepticism by numerous athletes.
The Tragedy
Ðukić, a 28-year-old competitor, lost his life during the first event of the CrossFit Games in August. The incident occurred during an 800-meter open-water swim in a lake, following a 5.6-kilometer run. Despite the cancellation of events for the remainder of the day, the Games continued, with some participants, including Ðukić’s brother Luka, choosing to withdraw from the competition.
The Investigation
In response to the tragedy, CrossFit commissioned a third-party investigation, which involved numerous interviews with eyewitnesses and event staff. While the full report will not be released due to privacy and legal reasons, a summary of proposed actions for future CrossFit Games has been made public.
Reactions and Controversy
Luka Ðukić expressed his frustration on social media, accusing the organization of disregarding human life. He criticized CrossFit for not sharing the investigation results promptly, suggesting that it was a delay tactic until public attention waned.
Lazar Ðukić was reportedly struggling during the swim leg of the competition, with event staff present on stand-up paddleboards in the water failing to react to his distress.
Proposed Safety Measures
- CrossFit intends to indefinitely suspend open-water swimming events and restrict swimming components to controlled environments, such as pools, with increased safety monitoring.
- A safety advisory board comprising medical professionals, safety experts, and athletes will be established.
- Enhanced pre-event rehearsals, expanded mental health resources, and the formation of an athlete council are among the planned safety improvements.
- A new senior leadership role focused on safety at the Games will be created, reporting to the CEO and sport organization director.
Community Response
The decision to proceed with the Games, as well as the handling of the aftermath by CrossFit leadership, has sparked criticism from athletes and organizations like the Professional Fitness Athletes Association (PFAA).
Multiple athletes, including Games winners like Annie Thorisdottir, have expressed disappointment over the lack of transparency in the investigation and the organization’s commitment to athlete safety.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Lazar Ðukić has prompted CrossFit to reevaluate its safety protocols and implement measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. However, the response from the community indicates a need for greater transparency and accountability from the organization.
FAQs
1. Will CrossFit continue to include swimming events in future competitions?
CrossFit has announced an indefinite suspension of open-water swimming events and plans to restrict swimming components to controlled environments like pools.
2. How has the CrossFit community reacted to the organization’s handling of the tragedy?
Many athletes and organizations, such as the PFAA, have criticized CrossFit for its lack of transparency and commitment to athlete safety following Lazar Ðukić’s death.