IRONMAN South Africa has confirmed the deaths of two participants during this year’s triathlon in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
In a statement, the organisers said that during the swim portion of the event, safety personnel responded to two separate incidents approximately 15 minutes apart. One athlete was extracted from the water at about 400 metres, while the second was pulled out at around 1 000 metres. Both athletes were taken to the designated extraction point for urgent medical care and were transported to hospital in separate ambulances.
“Our hearts go out to their families, friends and loved ones, and together with the triathlon community we mourn the loss of two fellow athletes. We will continue to offer our support to the athletes’ families as they go through this very difficult time.
“We also extend our sincere gratitude to the safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical support,” the organisers said.
Local police have opened two inquest dockets to determine the circumstances surrounding the incidents. Post-mortem examinations are expected to take place in the coming week. Authorities say no foul play is suspected at this stage.
The event included a 1.9 km sea swim as part of the triathlon. Organisers have asked the public and media to respect the privacy of the athletes’ families as investigations continue.
This is not the first time that participants have drowned at an IRONMAN event. During the 2014 Spec Savers IRONMAN 70.3, two competitors also drowned.
