Ironman horror as two men die during triathlon after Storm Betty delayed event

20 August 2023 , 13:02

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Two men have died while taking part in an Ironman triathlon event in Youghal, Co Cork (Image: Getty Images)

Two men have died while taking part in an Ironman triathlon event in Co Cork, Ireland, this morning.

The men, one aged in his 40s and the other in his 60s, died in separate incidents during the swimming segment of the triathlon held in Youghal. The men were pulled from the water by emergency services before being pronounced dead by medical personnel.

One of the participants is understood to have suffered a medical emergency in the harbour at the end of the swimming leg of the race. Gardai believe there was no foul play and are treating the deaths as a tragic incident.

A spokesperson said: "Gardai and emergency services are currently attending the scene of an incident in Youghal Co. Cork where two men have died at a sporting event this morning. Two men, aged 40s and 60s, were removed from the water by emergency services.

The shortened Ironman Swim course in Youghal harbour (IRONMANIreland/Facebook)

"They were pronounced deceased by medical personnel. The coroner has been notified. The organisers had decided to move the swim course further into the harbour and shorten it because of bad weather conditions."

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One of the deceased is believed to be an Irish man who had been living in the UK for some time, while the other is understood to be a man from Canada who had travelled here for the competition, reports Cork Beo. The weekend competition is continuing despite the double tragedy.

In a statement, the event organisers said: "We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of two race participants at the IRONMAN 70.3 Ireland, Cork 2023. During the swim portion of Sunday’s race, safety personnel provided immediate medical attention upon recognising the athletes were in need of assistance.

"We share our greatest sympathies with the families and friends of the athletes and will continue to offer them our support as they go through this very difficult time. We thank the safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical assistance."

The triathlon started at 7am this morning, and over 2,000 athletes are taking part.

Joe O'Shea