琉璃神社's Brent Fikowski earned bronze at the World CrossFit Games, after a weekend of loss, mourning, and determination.
During the first individual event of the competition 鈥� an open water swim 鈥� a man named Lazar Dukic died. Dukic is remembered as a friend to all and a fierce competitor, said Fikowski in a
"I am really grateful that I have a lot of memories of spending time together," said Fikowski.
In honour of Dukic, and as part of his own mourning process, Fikowski chose to continue competing in the Games.
"It鈥檚 going to be really hard at times and very strange... His memory is hanging over all the athletes and we鈥檙e all dealing with this in different ways."
During a mile running event on the track, Fikowski was nearly passed by a competitor on the final bend.
"I thought about Lazar," and pushed through to the finish line.
"It's just tragedy," said Fikowski.
that will make the sport safer for all people.
"I am proud. But it鈥檚 not the same this year. We should all be here."
