Thank you for releasing Event 1, and Lazar interview. Knowing many athletes were in distress, and struggling in Event 1 makes it more clear that safety support was totally absent. Didn’t need to watch anymore than that. Negligence cannot be supported.
Good on you guys for 1. Giving all ad revenue to Lazars family and 2. Telling the story that needs to be told. This is bone chilling and incredibly sad.
I was there and Brooke was not well. She laid on the ground for a good 5 minutes with medics all around her before she got up. When we seen the EMTs show up we thought it was for her. It was really horrific to now see her say this about this event….
@@raedene3 Elisa Fuliano as well felt uncomfortable while swimming..she stopped and watched around and there wasn't anybody near..anybody. She's italian, that's why I know and you can find this in some videos if you want to know something more ..
Huge respect to the supporter who tried to swim to Lazar to save him. He seemed to be one of the only people in that area with the awareness of the situation.
Honestly the stats on people drowning along with the people they are trying to help are very high, so he may be very lucky he was stopped. But at least if he’d been swimming out maybe others would have seen what was happening.
Patrick Vellner. True leader. You cant make that, you have to be it. Say what has to be said, say what is important, say what is hard. Most importantly, when the time comes and your ethics are compromised and in the best interests of your peers - absolutely have the stones to bite the hand that feeds you! For the greater good. ✊️ Also thanks Buttery Bros for doing this. This could not have been easy to experience first hand, watch, do and then watch over and over again to edit.
Man. The opening is so hard to watch. Seeing his smile and him talking with his brother just before they took off is gut wrenching. You wish you could reach through the screen and stop him. Well done.
I started watching this not knowing what happened. I was shocked. I live down the street from Dickie's and we were suppose to go but had a situation pop up. We didn't see anything on the news either. I'm flabbergasted. 😳😥
I started CrossFit because of the Redeemed and the Dominant movie, and I've followed your work ever since. I don't think I'm alone in saying I think this is your best. What an unbelievably difficult project to take on, but you've done an incredible job honoring Lazar, showing the world what it was like for the athletes to make an impossible choice, and created a completely brilliant work in the process. An additional shout out to Pat. Not sure there's a better voice for the change that needs to occur in the coming months. His ability to articulate himself when he's clearly up to his neck in grief, and struggling for words... incredible.
I had to take about 3 or 4 breaks because I just couldn't keep it together. It was like reliving the breaking news all over again but this time with a lot more details. I wish his friend and family the best and hope they are feeling a little better.
@@pureevoix yeah and it seems like that Luka looked back like wondering "hasn't he finished yet?" like the announcer wouldn't say Lazar had he already finished.
Thanks for putting this together Buttery Bros.. I wasn't able to watch the Games this year after Lazar's passing. My heart just ached. This video allowed me to see the recap. My heart goes out to Lazar's family, loved ones and everyone that was close to him. I can't imagine being there. Thanks again for the video - that couldn't have been easy. Love you guys!
For me the Games will never be the same. As a sport it’s been going downhill for years and even a hardcore fan like me (watched every Games since the start and even travelled from Europe to watch it live) have a breaking point. CrossFit fucked up and the neglect of security and the arrogance against the athletes finally took a life. No result of this Games edition will have any significance for me. Rest in peace Lazar.
Completely agreed. I even volunteered several times at the CrossFit Games and watched it religiously. But haven't given any ducks basically ever since the scandal with Greg Glassman. So now with the tragic loss of life that was easily preventable from a safety and organizational perspective it was kind of too much for me. (of course we don't know if he had any illness or acute sickness etc while he was swimming). But we can all easily agree that: 1 don't host the games during the hottest periods in the literally hottest places of America. Don't have swim events at all - it doesn't prove anything other than whether or not you have sufficient technique to not drown. It's not a good fitness measurement - comparative to the risks involved.
@@agnidas5816 Greg and his racism was definitely not OK and when the CrossFit community forced him out of the company I felt it was a huge win. His racism and almost conspiracy like personality never had a place in the sport even though he created a great training philosophy. Unfortunately he had set a team and a tone in the management team that still seems to live on and as a sport CrossFit has failed to be professionalized by not collaborating and listening to feedback from the athletes. It doesn’t need to be super standardized like Hyrox but if you want to arrange outdoor events make sure it’s not too much heat and humidity and for open swimming events put it first in order and have proper safety protocols in place. Simple things like that. Glassman was never big on the sport side and let Castro run the show. When Castro was out Adrian almost programmed the games into a circus act. The audience wanted “old” CrossFit back and they let Castro back in again which obviously was a mistake as he never have wanted a two way communication with the athletes.
Man the first part of Sevan talking to Lazar gives me chills. Life is so short, enjoy every moment with your friends and family and don’t take anything for granted. Much respect to the whole buttery crew for the perfect tribute.
When the volunteer asked you guys to keep the community together, I felt that. It's exactly what you have done here; much appreciation for you all; it must have been so hard to relive this repeatedly when putting this together.
The more I watch about the tragic event, the different stories unfolding, the more I’m Pissed at this game. My heart breaks for LAzar’s family. Organization failed him.
The time, energy, passion, care, love, and respect that you guys put into this is what we expect from Buttery Bros. I can’t imagine the endless hours of searching through the footage to find all these precious moments with Lazar! The CrossFit community needed this! Thank you guys!
Easier to find than you think. Dude was a light always shining. We remembered about 90% of the past clips within about 2 minutes of thinking back. He leaves an impression of positivity you want to hold on to.
I want to thank not just you guys but all the content creators in the CrossFit space for all the behind the scenes content you guys have all created over the years. You give us average people an opportunity to get to know these incredible athletes outside of a competition setting, and that gives us the ability to feel connected to them in many different ways. Thank you for your professionalism to be able to put this together and get it out there for the whole community to use to help through the grieving process. You guys do beautiful work.
Man, seeing the athletes being interviewed out of the water knowing that Lazar was still under is so difficult. Glad the story is being told and not forgotten.
I can't watch this....the intro is so daunting. Then the footage of seeing him run to his death? fucking hell it took me so long to get over the low this has caused me and now it's coming all back. Rest in Peace Champ, we love you and miss you.
I checked out when I heard the news. Didn’t watch anything else. I’m 42 min in to this and it is such a beautiful portrayal so far, honoring Lazar, the athletes, and the grief that was inevitably experienced by everyone who was there. Take your time, but when you think you’re ready, watch this.
I also checked out. I couldn’t watch any more of the games. I don’t know who won. Thank you for honouring him and sharing the memories of him through the athletes that cared about him.
It's hard to watch this :( thanks for making this boys. Really really well made. Also, Pat has worded it so well. That guy is so good with words. Again...been a fan for years, you guys crushed this. Absolute legends
Really well done. I live a mile from Marine Creek Lake. My family has run and biked around it for 15 years. I stopped by on the way to work to watch the race that morning. I was so excited to have this amazing international competition of incredible athletes basically in my backyard. Now I drop my kids off at nearby schools and drive by it every morning, and the sadness is fresh every day. I'm crushed for the loss of a life and for the athletes and families whose lives were turned upside down that morning. Peace, strength, and hope to the Crossfit community.
The last 10-12mins of this video are amazingly touching. It was amazing just hearing all the stories of Vellner, Hopper, Pepper and Brent having fun with Lazar
The two Canadians have always been my favorite people to compete in this sport. They always speak the honest truth with no BS. True mature role models.
Very well done guys. I was at the games this year and you really capture the mood of the weekend. It was unusually quiet. Yes, during the events the crowd was cheering and excited, there was definitely a black cloud and feeling of unease over the event. You could see it most in all the athletes. It was truly heartbreaking. Buttery Bros, you did a fantastic job of not only capturing the weekend in this film but you also did a wonderfully respectful job of covering the tragic loss of Lazar. Much respect to your class and grace guys.
What a beautifully done documentary boys. The end of the video got me.. many good memories and moments with Lazar, his smile & laugh could make anybody's day. Always a fierce competitor but with the biggest heart. It's a huge loss and it's still hard to believe. Thanks for documenting the week and for making such a beautiful tribute at the end. The community needed this.
This is brilliantly done. I can’t imagine how difficult finding this balance was, but you guys did it perfectly. Also, heartfelt condolences on the loss of your friend. You could always see the chemistry between you guys. Very very well done.
"Take the leaderboard out of it this year....it's not about that anymore. There are much more important things...." - Alexis Raptis. ❤ Love her. Well said.
So they go into the warm water in the Texas heat, AFTER a run, with blindness in the water and blinded by the sun out of the water, with not enough staff. This was negligence. Full stop. RIP Lazar
Amazing tribute to Lazar. The footage new and old was just beautiful. What a guy. In time I think his family will appreciate being able to watch this back and see his gorgeous soul shinning through .
@@ButteryBros1 I think releasing the clip at the end as a standalone video would be great, it was a really beautiful tribute and I was so happy to see it included. Thanks so much for your work
It’s been two weeks and it still feels so unreal, we were there and it hurts so much see the athletes so broken, I’m still sad, and mad, and in denial, I still can’t understand how this happened, we were sooo excited to see Lazar this year and this broke us completely, I’m really sorry I wish there was something we could do to change this, I just hope God gives his family a way to come through this, the strength needed, I’m so sorry this event failed you Lazar, in Mexico we always say “no one dies while that person lives in our memories”, now you will live forever Lazar ❤
Giving us a true glimpse into the bundle of joy who is Lazar…. This is the tribute he deserved. The intro is gut wrenching…. The outro with all the athletes personal stories with clips of him 😢 If TH-cam had awards for best documentary this should get it. I know this was extremely difficult to piece together. Can’t imagine how tough it was to relive these moments knowing you won’t have any more with him. RIP Lazar.
Thank you for this. Condolences to the Dukic family, all of Lazar's friends, and fellow athletes. SHAME ON CROSSFIT, THE SAFETY PERSONNEL, THE ORGANIZERS. You let an innocent man die the worst death possible. Drowned. With safety personnel just feet away. He deserved better. May you never have peace for the soul lost.
Well done boys. The passing of Lazar has unfortunately turned into a pretty tough subject for the community, and is a minefield to navigate. Not only did you guys navigate it flawlessly, you put together a great respectful, and informative film. Only something you boys could do. Cheers
Wow guys! This was perfect. Very respectful, honour filled, a proper tribute to Lazar. Hopefully, seeing the struggles the other competitors went through will put an end to the toxicity that permeated the social media narrative over the games weekend.
Thank you for sharing Lazar’s memory with us. Brent, I’m so sorry for the loss of your friend and competitor. Thank you for inspiring the community. We can all push ourselves during workouts in honor of Lazar.
I can't even imagine how the crew found the strength to create this documentary...the beginning part that showcases the first event is sad and shocking, every bit of it, every small detail and conversation prior to the tragedy...Thank you guys.
TY…this was so beautiful & hard to watch. For those who were watching Event 1 at home, this helps so much as a way to process the grief. My heart is hurting again for the loss of this incredible athlete!
I’m in the anger phase of my grieving process now and I am so MAD! He comes across as such a lovely person - deeply caring for everyone, remembering what matters to them, freaking apologizing when his competitiveness caused clashes…I just am so mad the world lost a sweet soul so senselessly! I’m devastated for his family and loved ones, who must be countless and wide spread, and I’m heartbroken for those of us who didn’t get to know Lazar well before his passing. And my anger grows every day for the sheer recklessness and lackadaisical attitude to athlete safety (that’s my perception). And I’m pissed at HQ for all of it including putting responsibility to continue on the athletes. It’s clear they were HURTING and in shock. It’s heartless and again, shows a complete disregard for the people who loved the sport and games. Looking at Luka’s sm, HQ absolutely failed all of them. I remember watching both Lazar and Luka qualify in the regionals and how happy they were to go together. I’m so angry that this was the outcome. Thanks for making this and showcasing Lazar the human. ❤
2 weeks later and I finally worked up the courage to watch this. Even though I knew the outcome this was so emotional. I applaud you, Buttery Bros, for creating a beautiful video highlighting Lazar and so many different athletes and their thoughts. Keep spreading butter ❤️
Thank you for this. The day Lazar passed was the same day my mom decided to goon hospice.seeing this video and the grief of the athletes has helped me in my own grief with the passing of my mom.
I think this will help a lot of people process this tragic event. Thanks for creating it. I hope you guys are taking care of yourselves. This couldn't have been easy. All the love.
That’s when I started to get choked up and cried. I’ve watched all the cross fit documentaries and videos of the events and he’s always such a breath of fresh air during the competitions so to see him breakdown like that had me in pieces.
Thank you for producing this tribute and giving us an insight into how loved Lazar was and the connection he had with you. In an inexplicable way it helps work through the grief.
Capturing these moments and compiling into one documentary couldn't have been easy and yet it appears you have honored Lazar just right. Thank you for doping what you do and filling this world with your work. Much appreciated!! #lazarlove
Thank you so much. I am at home crying non stop and want to take breaks in watching but I feel what you have so beautifully created needs to be absorbed in one . I can't imagine how hard this was to do but no-one else could have done it like this. You are amazing . Thank you .
Watching Brent after reading his instagram message post Games, you can see a lot of heaviness in his shoulders. I know he must feel a different burden from being one of the older athletes and probably having fought for some measures to be installed previously. Big hug to all
This must've been incredibly difficult to do. To relive it all, see him time and time again in the edits, and still be able to tell the story. Thank you ❤
I couldn't bring myself to keep watching the games this year...and I almost didn't watch this because I knew it would hurt. But then I reminded myself that the Buttery Bros always seem to lead with their hearts and if anyone was going to get this right, it would be them. So, I pushed play, and I'm really glad I did. The montage of memories at the end was beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
I can't help but feel angry in during the first 20 to 30min 1:21:13 "I can't imagine how difficult it is to wear that, but it's theirs to wear" This showcases how empathetic Pat is towards HQ (recognizing that the guilt they're probably feeling is torture) but at the same time understanding that there needs to be accountability. May Lazar rest in piece and let's hope this never happens again. Thank you for making this documentary. I'm sure it was hard editing it.
Thank you for making this. Beautiful, proper tribute for Lazar. He will be missed. I've watched the games for years and Lazar always stood out as a funny and positive guy, a strong competitor. Hearing other athletes' stories and memories about him only highlights how great he was.
Beautiful & thoughtful tribute. A hard story to tell, but an important one. Thanks guys. I loved all the great clips of Lazar at the end. What a beautiful soul! Uncontrollable, hot tears when Pat & Brent recalled their endearing stories about Lazar and how much they would miss him 💔.
Appreciate how you allowed everyone to share their grief and memories throughout the weekend. I think this was a needed contribution. You guys have the trust of the athletes and that’s huge.
You guys nailed this video. Was balanced and respectful. Think Tia giving the thumbs up when she hit the mat was the last time my eyes were dry. The more you showed his personality the harder it got. It was perfect.
What Pat said echoes me feelings exactly. I’ve grown disengaged with CrossFit as a company and movement for years. This latest event has made me realize there’s deep problems at the company that are just completely ignored. Completely disappointed…
What's the point of having the emergency personnel in the water if they're not paying attention..... Also a fan jumping in to save him and being blown off is horrible, inexcusable!
have the illusion of competency and “all bases covered” to get sanctioned and approved to host your event at a venue, and to protect yourself legally. Also to build the illusion of safety and trust with athletes/spectators that HQ actually cares about the athletes at all. It’s like V for Vendetta, the guards were just wood mannequins and the cell door was unlocked the entire time. Illusion creates safety, the minimal amount of trust to build a big enough brand on. This could have happened so many times over all the years, it’s amazing it didn’t happen sooner
The arrogance of Castro and Crossfit HQ to think Crossfit athletes can defy basic bodily needs like cool down because they are the “fittest on earth”. Dave Castro still runs the games like they’re in his backyard at the ranch and it’s time for him to go.
This is going to sound counterintuitive but stopping the spectator from going further was probably the only thing they did right. Shouldn’t let someone go in alone to a drowning person cuz they will likely take them down with them. I don’t get how they didn’t see it happen!
@@christianmilazzo7034agreed but I think they were trying to alert the safety team. If you watch Justin medeiros latest video you will see it was his family calling the safety team and his brother-in-law that jumped in the water. He’s a police officer.
You guys absolutely nailed this one. You did an amazing job of paying tribute to Lazar while still highlighting the event so well overall. Grateful for you guys and the joy (and butter) you spread. God bless ❤️
Captivating piece of ART! This is exactly what platforms should do in times of hardship and adversity. For this documentary to make you really FEEL something after such a tough situation is incredible. Keep it coming guys!
CAN WE TURN BACK TIME!!!!??? Just when I thought I was all cried out about this tremendous loss- mind you, I’m just a regular Mom Crossfitter, that knew very little about this man, ‘cause he wasn’t an athlete I followed closely- here come the last 10 mins of this. Buttery Bros & Crew- thank you for this. Condolences to all those affected, to all that shared space with him, to his family/loved ones. Heaven will be thankful to have him, he was too good for this place.
The amount of times I had to remind myself to breathe while watching 💔... Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Lazar. Our community is strong. We will get through this with each other. Sending everyone so much love. Buttery Bros, take care of yourselves and each other. This couldn't have been easy to create. 🤍Rest easy, Lazar
Damn, I honestly wanted to fast forward the first 10-20mins, knowing what we know, seeing gradually the full force of what was happening around you hit so hard. thank you for making this tribute, thank you for giving us a place to see & hear him one last time, he deserved that & so much more. You are the best Lazar! May our community never forget you 🫶🫶
Sprague and Parker... ugh! To say somebody who is 29 years old at the prime of his life, with everything to live for and achieve, to say that he is in a better place is infuriating! He is not in a better place! He should be here with his family and his friends, doing what he loves! He wasn't terminally ill... he died tragically, more than likely as a result of negligence... he died too young and too soon! RIP Lazar.
They're both awful dudes I've seen nothing in all the videos and their social media that makes me like them whatsoever. The religion as a mask for absolute narcissistic behaviour is foul
@@neversaw100000% agree on this. Sprague wouldn’t have podium had it not been for this devastating tragedy. His whole attitude and demeanor were so tone deaf.
As always, the Buttery Bros find balance. Which was incredibly difficult to do, many social media accounts failed to do so during the games. But for Crossfit - change is needed. Dave and Crossfit treat athletes like disposable pawns. And the cult loyalty towards Dave and the corporate brand is the reason people are defending it all. Pretty extensive history of severe safety concerns and health concerns. I've seen comments saying "dont feel safe, dont do it, there are lots of others to fill the spots" or "they knew the risks"... Wow. Empathy, or emotional intelligence, clearly isn't one of the 10 domains.
Wow!🤩 Thank you Buttery Bros for doing this video and capturing the atmosphere at the games after the tragedy that us at home couldn’t imagine. You all did a brilliant job. Keep up the great work. We love you for it.
the moment you see how little support was out there, and consistently all the athletes talk about how difficult the swim was… the moment no one paid attention to where he was…this was criminal negligence
This was absolutely amazing and SO beautiful. You have a very special gift and here you used it to it’s fullest. All documentaries you have done over the years is worldclass and have been watched by me over and over but this one is the best you have ever done and I hope you are really proud. Sending strenght and love from Sweden for what must have been such a tuff task to deliver. I’m sure all that are watching thanks and salute you…truly well done ❤️
I never watch the whole games live. I always wait for the butter content and the social posts of it all. When the news broke I tried to watch but couldn't. I knew you guys would show better representation of it all. I know this was so hard for you all. the Buttery Bros are the hype crew the love the connection with us and the athletes thank you for still doing an amazing job even when it must of been so hard. Im sure looking through all his old games footage was so tough but you showed and shared it so beautifully. Thank y'all! Praying over Lazars friends and family and everyone affected by this.
This is so well done. I can’t even imagine how difficult this must have been to put together, but you guys rode the line beautifully. The final product says a TON about your talent, but even more about the amazing humans you all are. Thank you for everything you do for this community. ❤
Jesus. Really tough watch. Feel for you guys, Craig & Jas, Luka, his family, friends. Just lost for words. The way Jeff swam, Brooke Wells words, I'm surprised there wasn't more fatalities.
The beginning was so hard to watch. I had to keep stopping it, feeling that same pit in my stomach I did the day it happened. Still absolutely heartbroken for his family. It's honestly alarming to see how many other athletes complained about this swim event, notably Brooke wells saying she felt like she was going to give up during the swim.
ALL ADSENSE WILL BE DONATED TO THE GOFUNDME FOR LAZAR'S FAMILY.
@@thejsixm2357flaws.
@@thejsixm2357shut up
@@thejsixm2357bro, shut up
@@thejsixm2357Dude, just stop. They are doing a good thing. Don’t let circular logic stop you from having a heart ❤️
Thank you for releasing Event 1, and Lazar interview. Knowing many athletes were in distress, and struggling in Event 1 makes it more clear that safety support was totally absent. Didn’t need to watch anymore than that. Negligence cannot be supported.
Good on you guys for 1. Giving all ad revenue to Lazars family and 2. Telling the story that needs to be told.
This is bone chilling and incredibly sad.
Bone chilling for sure. Thanks for your support legend.
Brook’s comments about saying she almost gave up while swimming and that she almost drowned. All before they knew Lazar was missing. So eerie.
I picked that up too. I think there was another athlete that said the same. I am sure Jeff Adler was struggling too. Imagine how many more struggled.
She looked terrified... heartbreaking to see this now 😢
I was there and Brooke was not well. She laid on the ground for a good 5 minutes with medics all around her before she got up. When we seen the EMTs show up we thought it was for her. It was really horrific to now see her say this about this event….
Fraser almost drowned in 2017 too
@@raedene3 Elisa Fuliano as well felt uncomfortable while swimming..she stopped and watched around and there wasn't anybody near..anybody. She's italian, that's why I know and you can find this in some videos if you want to know something more ..
Huge respect to the supporter who tried to swim to Lazar to save him. He seemed to be one of the only people in that area with the awareness of the situation.
And he was stopped. I thought they would cover that in the movie.
You should go watch Justin Medeiros' take on the Crossfit games. He said the guy jumped in the water was his sister's boyfriend and a police officer.
@@gracious2gfwhere can I watch?
When someone sees one drowning why didn’t they stop the competition???? Unbelievable
Honestly the stats on people drowning along with the people they are trying to help are very high, so he may be very lucky he was stopped. But at least if he’d been swimming out maybe others would have seen what was happening.
The more I watch, the more respect I have for Fikowski. All class.
Fikowski and Vellner… both classy and know that changes were and are needed... not afraid to voice themselves either.
Patrick Vellner. True leader. You cant make that, you have to be it. Say what has to be said, say what is important, say what is hard. Most importantly, when the time comes and your ethics are compromised and in the best interests of your peers - absolutely have the stones to bite the hand that feeds you! For the greater good. ✊️
Also thanks Buttery Bros for doing this. This could not have been easy to experience first hand, watch, do and then watch over and over again to edit.
Spot on!!
Man. The opening is so hard to watch. Seeing his smile and him talking with his brother just before they took off is gut wrenching. You wish you could reach through the screen and stop him. Well done.
I started watching this not knowing what happened. I was shocked. I live down the street from Dickie's and we were suppose to go but had a situation pop up. We didn't see anything on the news either. I'm flabbergasted. 😳😥
I started CrossFit because of the Redeemed and the Dominant movie, and I've followed your work ever since. I don't think I'm alone in saying I think this is your best. What an unbelievably difficult project to take on, but you've done an incredible job honoring Lazar, showing the world what it was like for the athletes to make an impossible choice, and created a completely brilliant work in the process.
An additional shout out to Pat. Not sure there's a better voice for the change that needs to occur in the coming months. His ability to articulate himself when he's clearly up to his neck in grief, and struggling for words... incredible.
Hearing him talking after knowing what’s gonna happen is heart breaking over and over again.
Agreed. Hard to watch but important to watch.
Saddest feeling ever 😢 totally preventable loss of life.
I had to take about 3 or 4 breaks because I just couldn't keep it together. It was like reliving the breaking news all over again but this time with a lot more details. I wish his friend and family the best and hope they are feeling a little better.
7:48 Luka hearing his brother's name near the finish line and turning to look for him just hit so hard 💔
Why did the announcer say Lazar Dukic heading to the finish line? Misspoke? :(
EDIT: I kept watching and found my answer. :(
@@pureevoix yeah and it seems like that Luka looked back like wondering "hasn't he finished yet?" like the announcer wouldn't say Lazar had he already finished.
That was a beautiful depiction of a horrible weekend, made with a lot of humanity and integrity. You guys are a class act. What an amazing tribute.
Thanks for putting this together Buttery Bros.. I wasn't able to watch the Games this year after Lazar's passing. My heart just ached. This video allowed me to see the recap. My heart goes out to Lazar's family, loved ones and everyone that was close to him. I can't imagine being there. Thanks again for the video - that couldn't have been easy. Love you guys!
For me the Games will never be the same. As a sport it’s been going downhill for years and even a hardcore fan like me (watched every Games since the start and even travelled from Europe to watch it live) have a breaking point. CrossFit fucked up and the neglect of security and the arrogance against the athletes finally took a life. No result of this Games edition will have any significance for me. Rest in peace Lazar.
Completely agreed. I even volunteered several times at the CrossFit Games and watched it religiously. But haven't given any ducks basically ever since the scandal with Greg Glassman.
So now with the tragic loss of life that was easily preventable from a safety and organizational perspective it was kind of too much for me. (of course we don't know if he had any illness or acute sickness etc while he was swimming). But we can all easily agree that:
1 don't host the games during the hottest periods in the literally hottest places of America.
Don't have swim events at all - it doesn't prove anything other than whether or not you have sufficient technique to not drown. It's not a good fitness measurement - comparative to the risks involved.
I completely agree. Where are you from?
Spot on man. Dave Castro and crew…they believe this is war like Pat said…it’s ridiculous
the whole greg glassman the racist thing was okay though ? even though half the crossfit boxes dropped the franchise ? but you stayed ...
@@agnidas5816 Greg and his racism was definitely not OK and when the CrossFit community forced him out of the company I felt it was a huge win. His racism and almost conspiracy like personality never had a place in the sport even though he created a great training philosophy. Unfortunately he had set a team and a tone in the management team that still seems to live on and as a sport CrossFit has failed to be professionalized by not collaborating and listening to feedback from the athletes. It doesn’t need to be super standardized like Hyrox but if you want to arrange outdoor events make sure it’s not too much heat and humidity and for open swimming events put it first in order and have proper safety protocols in place. Simple things like that. Glassman was never big on the sport side and let Castro run the show. When Castro was out Adrian almost programmed the games into a circus act. The audience wanted “old” CrossFit back and they let Castro back in again which obviously was a mistake as he never have wanted a two way communication with the athletes.
You guys did a better tribute with one video than the crossfit games have done in 4 days.
YESSSSSS 💯
Vellner & Fikowski = pure genuine class people
So scary to hear Brooke say that. We could’ve lost more than one person. 💔
Yeah adds a lot of perspective.
timestamp? what did she say?
@@Jimminityjabooboothat she almost drown. This was before they knew about Lazar.
11:17 😮
Agreed. I would like to hear more about Brooke’s experience.
Man the first part of Sevan talking to Lazar gives me chills. Life is so short, enjoy every moment with your friends and family and don’t take anything for granted.
Much respect to the whole buttery crew for the perfect tribute.
Pat and Brent. What a duo of positive force. What a way with words they both have.
11:20 brooke saying she would have gave up if someone was closer is wild
When the volunteer asked you guys to keep the community together, I felt that. It's exactly what you have done here; much appreciation for you all; it must have been so hard to relive this repeatedly when putting this together.
The more I watch about the tragic event, the different stories unfolding, the more I’m
Pissed at this game. My heart breaks for LAzar’s family. Organization failed him.
Patrick and Brent are such a class - great men!
Dave castro and all of crossfit hq need to resign. Especially after what Luka revealed today about how they handled things.
The time, energy, passion, care, love, and respect that you guys put into this is what we expect from Buttery Bros. I can’t imagine the endless hours of searching through the footage to find all these precious moments with Lazar! The CrossFit community needed this! Thank you guys!
Easier to find than you think. Dude was a light always shining. We remembered about 90% of the past clips within about 2 minutes of thinking back. He leaves an impression of positivity you want to hold on to.
Huge respect such athletes as Jeff and Laura. They are pure champions not in sport only but in life
I want to thank not just you guys but all the content creators in the CrossFit space for all the behind the scenes content you guys have all created over the years. You give us average people an opportunity to get to know these incredible athletes outside of a competition setting, and that gives us the ability to feel connected to them in many different ways. Thank you for your professionalism to be able to put this together and get it out there for the whole community to use to help through the grieving process. You guys do beautiful work.
@@j.nicholscutting3984 ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Man, seeing the athletes being interviewed out of the water knowing that Lazar was still under is so difficult. Glad the story is being told and not forgotten.
Didn’t watch the games, didn’t feel right… this was the first footage I’ve seen of it. beautifully made. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Same here. They did a beautiful film
I can't watch this....the intro is so daunting. Then the footage of seeing him run to his death? fucking hell it took me so long to get over the low this has caused me and now it's coming all back. Rest in Peace Champ, we love you and miss you.
Don't think we aren't still deep in that low. This has been incredibly harrowing to create.
That’s why I’m afraid to watch. I think I’ll wait a couple more weeks.
I checked out when I heard the news. Didn’t watch anything else. I’m 42 min in to this and it is such a beautiful portrayal so far, honoring Lazar, the athletes, and the grief that was inevitably experienced by everyone who was there.
Take your time, but when you think you’re ready, watch this.
I also checked out. I couldn’t watch any more of the games. I don’t know who won. Thank you for honouring him and sharing the memories of him through the athletes that cared about him.
Phenomenal work boys. RIP Lazar
It's hard to watch this :( thanks for making this boys. Really really well made.
Also, Pat has worded it so well. That guy is so good with words.
Again...been a fan for years, you guys crushed this. Absolute legends
Really well done. I live a mile from Marine Creek Lake. My family has run and biked around it for 15 years. I stopped by on the way to work to watch the race that morning. I was so excited to have this amazing international competition of incredible athletes basically in my backyard. Now I drop my kids off at nearby schools and drive by it every morning, and the sadness is fresh every day. I'm crushed for the loss of a life and for the athletes and families whose lives were turned upside down that morning. Peace, strength, and hope to the Crossfit community.
I had a lump in my throat the whole video. Knowing what was coming was overwhelming. Very well done!
The last 10-12mins of this video are amazingly touching. It was amazing just hearing all the stories of Vellner, Hopper, Pepper and Brent having fun with Lazar
Brent 💔such a class act.
Thank you Buttery Team for showing all this with the due amount of respect.
The two Canadians have always been my favorite people to compete in this sport. They always speak the honest truth with no BS. True mature role models.
Very well done guys. I was at the games this year and you really capture the mood of the weekend. It was unusually quiet. Yes, during the events the crowd was cheering and excited, there was definitely a black cloud and feeling of unease over the event. You could see it most in all the athletes. It was truly heartbreaking. Buttery Bros, you did a fantastic job of not only capturing the weekend in this film but you also did a wonderfully respectful job of covering the tragic loss of Lazar. Much respect to your class and grace guys.
What a beautifully done documentary boys. The end of the video got me.. many good memories and moments with Lazar, his smile & laugh could make anybody's day. Always a fierce competitor but with the biggest heart. It's a huge loss and it's still hard to believe. Thanks for documenting the week and for making such a beautiful tribute at the end. The community needed this.
Trying to keep our production levels near yours my dude. You’re leading the pack 🙌🏼
This is brilliantly done. I can’t imagine how difficult finding this balance was, but you guys did it perfectly. Also, heartfelt condolences on the loss of your friend. You could always see the chemistry between you guys.
Very very well done.
"Take the leaderboard out of it this year....it's not about that anymore. There are much more important things...." - Alexis Raptis. ❤ Love her. Well said.
You can feel the pain in Brent and Pat’s interviews throughout. Pain..
So they go into the warm water in the Texas heat, AFTER a run, with blindness in the water and blinded by the sun out of the water, with not enough staff. This was negligence. Full stop. RIP Lazar
Amazing tribute to Lazar. The footage new and old was just beautiful. What a guy. In time I think his family will appreciate being able to watch this back and see his gorgeous soul shinning through .
We hope they skip to the end. Maybe we just clip that by itself as its own video.
@@ButteryBros1 I think releasing the clip at the end as a standalone video would be great, it was a really beautiful tribute and I was so happy to see it included. Thanks so much for your work
@ButteryBros1 The last 10 minutes stands on its own.
Agree. Such a great vid, well done especially at the end. ❤
@@holly6725 Agreed
It’s been two weeks and it still feels so unreal, we were there and it hurts so much see the athletes so broken, I’m still sad, and mad, and in denial, I still can’t understand how this happened, we were sooo excited to see Lazar this year and this broke us completely, I’m really sorry I wish there was something we could do to change this, I just hope God gives his family a way to come through this, the strength needed, I’m so sorry this event failed you Lazar, in Mexico we always say “no one dies while that person lives in our memories”, now you will live forever Lazar ❤
I wish you guys well, I really hope you and your team are protecting your mental health. This must have been incredibly hard to do. All the best.
Giving us a true glimpse into the bundle of joy who is Lazar…. This is the tribute he deserved. The intro is gut wrenching…. The outro with all the athletes personal stories with clips of him 😢 If TH-cam had awards for best documentary this should get it. I know this was extremely difficult to piece together. Can’t imagine how tough it was to relive these moments knowing you won’t have any more with him. RIP Lazar.
Thanks for your kind words
The level of negligent behaviour of the CrossFit event organisation is much bigger than I could have ever expected!😡
Really? What negligence?
@@stuartgriffiths6382 They did not even realize that he did not meet the finish line and that he drawned for a really long time!
Thank you for this. Condolences to the Dukic family, all of Lazar's friends, and fellow athletes.
SHAME ON CROSSFIT, THE SAFETY PERSONNEL, THE ORGANIZERS. You let an innocent man die the worst death possible. Drowned. With safety personnel just feet away. He deserved better. May you never have peace for the soul lost.
Well done boys. The passing of Lazar has unfortunately turned into a pretty tough subject for the community, and is a minefield to navigate. Not only did you guys navigate it flawlessly, you put together a great respectful, and informative film. Only something you boys could do. Cheers
Wow guys! This was perfect. Very respectful, honour filled, a proper tribute to Lazar. Hopefully, seeing the struggles the other competitors went through will put an end to the toxicity that permeated the social media narrative over the games weekend.
Thank you for sharing Lazar’s memory with us. Brent, I’m so sorry for the loss of your friend and competitor. Thank you for inspiring the community. We can all push ourselves during workouts in honor of Lazar.
I can't even imagine how the crew found the strength to create this documentary...the beginning part that showcases the first event is sad and shocking, every bit of it, every small detail and conversation prior to the tragedy...Thank you guys.
TY…this was so beautiful & hard to watch. For those who were watching Event 1 at home, this helps so much as a way to process the grief. My heart is hurting again for the loss of this incredible athlete!
Considering the point where he went down, the amount of time spent when they realized he was missing and they started to search is simply insane
I’m in the anger phase of my grieving process now and I am so MAD! He comes across as such a lovely person - deeply caring for everyone, remembering what matters to them, freaking apologizing when his competitiveness caused clashes…I just am so mad the world lost a sweet soul so senselessly! I’m devastated for his family and loved ones, who must be countless and wide spread, and I’m heartbroken for those of us who didn’t get to know Lazar well before his passing.
And my anger grows every day for the sheer recklessness and lackadaisical attitude to athlete safety (that’s my perception). And I’m pissed at HQ for all of it including putting responsibility to continue on the athletes. It’s clear they were HURTING and in shock. It’s heartless and again, shows a complete disregard for the people who loved the sport and games. Looking at Luka’s sm, HQ absolutely failed all of them. I remember watching both Lazar and Luka qualify in the regionals and how happy they were to go together. I’m so angry that this was the outcome.
Thanks for making this and showcasing Lazar the human. ❤
2 weeks later and I finally worked up the courage to watch this. Even though I knew the outcome this was so emotional. I applaud you, Buttery Bros, for creating a beautiful video highlighting Lazar and so many different athletes and their thoughts. Keep spreading butter ❤️
Thank you for this. The day Lazar passed was the same day my mom decided to goon hospice.seeing this video and the grief of the athletes has helped me in my own grief with the passing of my mom.
Tragedy is very hard. Sorry you’re going through your own
Appreciate the random showcase of the crossing guard from the parking lot. He was literally one of the nicest dudes there!
He was a ray of light I needed that morning
Beginning and end were really hard to watch. Thank you Heber, Mars, and your whole team. This was beautiful
I think this will help a lot of people process this tragic event. Thanks for creating it. I hope you guys are taking care of yourselves. This couldn't have been easy. All the love.
I was doing okay until I saw Chandler Smith crying as he was starting the first team workout. Geez. That got me.
That’s when I started to get choked up and cried. I’ve watched all the cross fit documentaries and videos of the events and he’s always such a breath of fresh air during the competitions so to see him breakdown like that had me in pieces.
Why would the games be held in Texas during the summer?
That decision alone was not a good one.
Lazar’s eye contact with the camera on the run.. 😮💨 chills.
Thank you for producing this tribute and giving us an insight into how loved Lazar was and the connection he had with you. In an inexplicable way it helps work through the grief.
What an excellent tribute, guys. Thank you for leveraging your talent at storytelling to honor him so well.
Capturing these moments and compiling into one documentary couldn't have been easy and yet it appears you have honored Lazar just right. Thank you for doping what you do and filling this world with your work. Much appreciated!! #lazarlove
The last part had me in tears! 😭😭 What an amazing human being! Continued Prayers for his loved ones🙏🏻💙🕊️ Beautifully put together Buttery Bros!
He was the best
Thank you so much. I am at home crying non stop and want to take breaks in watching but I feel what you have so beautifully created needs to be absorbed in one . I can't imagine how hard this was to do but no-one else could have done it like this. You are amazing . Thank you .
Very kind Sally. Thanks for sharing this
Watching Brent after reading his instagram message post Games, you can see a lot of heaviness in his shoulders. I know he must feel a different burden from being one of the older athletes and probably having fought for some measures to be installed previously. Big hug to all
What a beautiful, compassionate, empathetic tribute. I know it was not easy to make. “Lazar is the best!” 🖤
This must've been incredibly difficult to do. To relive it all, see him time and time again in the edits, and still be able to tell the story.
Thank you ❤
It’s been a very difficult few weeks.
I couldn't bring myself to keep watching the games this year...and I almost didn't watch this because I knew it would hurt. But then I reminded myself that the Buttery Bros always seem to lead with their hearts and if anyone was going to get this right, it would be them. So, I pushed play, and I'm really glad I did. The montage of memories at the end was beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
I can't help but feel angry in during the first 20 to 30min
1:21:13 "I can't imagine how difficult it is to wear that, but it's theirs to wear" This showcases how empathetic Pat is towards HQ (recognizing that the guilt they're probably feeling is torture) but at the same time understanding that there needs to be accountability. May Lazar rest in piece and let's hope this never happens again. Thank you for making this documentary. I'm sure it was hard editing it.
It’s a hard watch. Thanks for your note
This is so beautiful
Darkest moment in Crossfit. The tribute needed for him.This is why ButteryBros are the best at doing crossfit documentaries.
Thank you for making this. Beautiful, proper tribute for Lazar. He will be missed. I've watched the games for years and Lazar always stood out as a funny and positive guy, a strong competitor. Hearing other athletes' stories and memories about him only highlights how great he was.
Beautiful & thoughtful tribute. A hard story to tell, but an important one. Thanks guys.
I loved all the great clips of Lazar at the end. What a beautiful soul! Uncontrollable, hot tears when Pat & Brent recalled their endearing stories about Lazar and how much they would miss him 💔.
Appreciate how you allowed everyone to share their grief and memories throughout the weekend. I think this was a needed contribution. You guys have the trust of the athletes and that’s huge.
Sarah Wilkinson is a national treasure. Her exquisite words were perfect for this year❤️ Rest in Power Lazar.
You guys nailed this video. Was balanced and respectful. Think Tia giving the thumbs up when she hit the mat was the last time my eyes were dry. The more you showed his personality the harder it got. It was perfect.
Seeing Tia come out of the water and knowing that’s when Lazar drowned. Damn.
What Pat said echoes me feelings exactly. I’ve grown disengaged with CrossFit as a company and movement for years. This latest event has made me realize there’s deep problems at the company that are just completely ignored. Completely disappointed…
What's the point of having the emergency personnel in the water if they're not paying attention..... Also a fan jumping in to save him and being blown off is horrible, inexcusable!
have the illusion of competency and “all bases covered” to get sanctioned and approved to host your event at a venue, and to protect yourself legally. Also to build the illusion of safety and trust with athletes/spectators that HQ actually cares about the athletes at all. It’s like V for Vendetta, the guards were just wood mannequins and the cell door was unlocked the entire time. Illusion creates safety, the minimal amount of trust to build a big enough brand on. This could have happened so many times over all the years, it’s amazing it didn’t happen sooner
The arrogance of Castro and Crossfit HQ to think Crossfit athletes can defy basic bodily needs like cool down because they are the “fittest on earth”. Dave Castro still runs the games like they’re in his backyard at the ranch and it’s time for him to go.
Has anyone confirmed if personnel in the water were trained life-guards or just everyday volunteers?
This is going to sound counterintuitive but stopping the spectator from going further was probably the only thing they did right. Shouldn’t let someone go in alone to a drowning person cuz they will likely take them down with them. I don’t get how they didn’t see it happen!
@@christianmilazzo7034agreed but I think they were trying to alert the safety team. If you watch Justin medeiros latest video you will see it was his family calling the safety team and his brother-in-law that jumped in the water. He’s a police officer.
You guys absolutely nailed this one. You did an amazing job of paying tribute to Lazar while still highlighting the event so well overall.
Grateful for you guys and the joy (and butter) you spread. God bless ❤️
Great interview with Pat at about the 1:20:00 mark!
I did not want to watch this, thought it was a click grab, but now I am extremely glad I did. Great job Bros, amazing tribute, very classy.
Love the lazar story unfold on your episode that could change CrossFit forever & this is very nice tribute to him
Captivating piece of ART! This is exactly what platforms should do in times of hardship and adversity. For this documentary to make you really FEEL something after such a tough situation is incredible. Keep it coming guys!
CAN WE TURN BACK TIME!!!!??? Just when I thought I was all cried out about this tremendous loss- mind you, I’m just a regular Mom Crossfitter, that knew very little about this man, ‘cause he wasn’t an athlete I followed closely- here come the last 10 mins of this. Buttery Bros & Crew- thank you for this. Condolences to all those affected, to all that shared space with him, to his family/loved ones. Heaven will be thankful to have him, he was too good for this place.
The amount of times I had to remind myself to breathe while watching 💔... Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Lazar. Our community is strong. We will get through this with each other. Sending everyone so much love. Buttery Bros, take care of yourselves and each other. This couldn't have been easy to create. 🤍Rest easy, Lazar
Damn, I honestly wanted to fast forward the first 10-20mins, knowing what we know, seeing gradually the full force of what was happening around you hit so hard.
thank you for making this tribute, thank you for giving us a place to see & hear him one last time, he deserved that & so much more.
You are the best Lazar!
May our community never forget you 🫶🫶
Sprague and Parker... ugh! To say somebody who is 29 years old at the prime of his life, with everything to live for and achieve, to say that he is in a better place is infuriating! He is not in a better place! He should be here with his family and his friends, doing what he loves! He wasn't terminally ill... he died tragically, more than likely as a result of negligence... he died too young and too soon! RIP Lazar.
Yes! Thank you for saying this. Scrolling through comments to find someone else who felt this same way. Agree so much.
They're both awful dudes I've seen nothing in all the videos and their social media that makes me like them whatsoever. The religion as a mask for absolute narcissistic behaviour is foul
@@neversaw100000% agree on this.
Sprague wouldn’t have podium had it not been for this devastating tragedy.
His whole attitude and demeanor were so tone deaf.
Never liked sprague, he’s a narcissist. Talking bout god all the time…get over yourself.
That’s their religion and their own opinion… who are you to say that’s wrong or bad
As always, the Buttery Bros find balance. Which was incredibly difficult to do, many social media accounts failed to do so during the games.
But for Crossfit - change is needed. Dave and Crossfit treat athletes like disposable pawns. And the cult loyalty towards Dave and the corporate brand is the reason people are defending it all. Pretty extensive history of severe safety concerns and health concerns. I've seen comments saying "dont feel safe, dont do it, there are lots of others to fill the spots" or "they knew the risks"... Wow. Empathy, or emotional intelligence, clearly isn't one of the 10 domains.
Wow!🤩 Thank you Buttery Bros for doing this video and capturing the atmosphere at the games after the tragedy that us at home couldn’t imagine. You all did a brilliant job. Keep up the great work. We love you for it.
the moment you see how little support was out there, and consistently all the athletes talk about how difficult the swim was… the moment no one paid attention to where he was…this was criminal negligence
This was absolutely amazing and SO beautiful. You have a very special gift and here you used it to it’s fullest. All documentaries you have done over the years is worldclass and have been watched by me over and over but this one is the best you have ever done and I hope you are really proud. Sending strenght and love from Sweden for what must have been such a tuff task to deliver. I’m sure all that are watching thanks and salute you…truly well done ❤️
I’m 13 minutes in and feeling very emotional watching this. Still in disbelief that Lazar is gone:(
Hope you make it through the rest.
@@ButteryBros1 thanks for another great documentary, your story-telling is unparalleled❤
I never watch the whole games live. I always wait for the butter content and the social posts of it all. When the news broke I tried to watch but couldn't. I knew you guys would show better representation of it all. I know this was so hard for you all. the Buttery Bros are the hype crew the love the connection with us and the athletes thank you for still doing an amazing job even when it must of been so hard. Im sure looking through all his old games footage was so tough but you showed and shared it so beautifully. Thank y'all! Praying over Lazars friends and family and everyone affected by this.
Omg I'm crying again. So hard to watch this, but thank you all for uploading broken-hearted 💔
This is so well done. I can’t even imagine how difficult this must have been to put together, but you guys rode the line beautifully. The final product says a TON about your talent, but even more about the amazing humans you all are. Thank you for everything you do for this community. ❤
Jesus. Really tough watch. Feel for you guys, Craig & Jas, Luka, his family, friends. Just lost for words. The way Jeff swam, Brooke Wells words, I'm surprised there wasn't more fatalities.
The beginning was so hard to watch. I had to keep stopping it, feeling that same pit in my stomach I did the day it happened. Still absolutely heartbroken for his family. It's honestly alarming to see how many other athletes complained about this swim event, notably Brooke wells saying she felt like she was going to give up during the swim.