Tragedy as athlete dies after ‘getting into difficulty' while swimming during ‘Ironman' race
RACE HORROR Tragedy as athlete dies after 'getting into difficulty' while swimming during 'Ironman' race
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AN IRONMAN athlete has tragically died after competing in Wales.
The athlete began experiencing "difficulty" during the swimming section of the triathlon in Swansea Ironman 70.3.
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The competitor - who has not been named - received immediate medical care and rushed to hospital.
But they tragically died on Wednesday, event organisers have since confirmed.
A statement from Ironman Wales read: "It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of an athlete who competed in last weekend's IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea triathlon.
"Approximately half-way into the swim portion of the race, swim safety personnel noticed and responded to an athlete in difficulty.
"The athlete received immediate medical care while being taken via boat to a designated extraction point on the harbour, where further treatment was administered.
"The athlete was then transported to the hospital where they continued to receive treatment, but sadly passed today.
"Our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the athlete.
"We will continue to offer them our support and keep them in our thoughts as they go through this challenging time.
"We are deeply grateful to the swim safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athlete with medical assistance."
Each year, thousands take part in the Welsh triathlon, but this was the UK's first ever Ironman Pro Series event.
Competitors start by completing a 1.2-mile swim at the Prince of Wales Dock, followed by a 56-mile bike ride through Mumbles and along the coastal clifftops of Gower, before heading out into rural Swansea and then back along Swansea Bay into the city.
They then return to Swansea, preparing for transition in the Maritime Quarter next to the River Tawe.
Competitors then tackle a 13.1-mile two-loop run course that leads them from the city centre, past Swansea Arena, towards Mumbles and then back to the finish line at the marina
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