Triathlon Ireland has stated that it did not authorise a swimming race in which two competitors lost their lives in Cork this week.
The two individuals, who lost their lives were named as Ivan Chittenden and Brendan Wall. Both tragically passed away during the swimming leg of the Ironman event in Youghal, County Cork, on Sunday.
The event had been rescheduled from Saturday due to flooding and poor course conditions following Storm Betty.
Both men, aged in their 40s and 60s, encountered difficulties in separate incidents. Despite efforts by emergency services to rescue them from the water, they were pronounced dead at the scene.
The event, consisted of a 90km bike course, a 21.1km run, and a 1.9km swim in Youghal Bay. The swimming part was curtailed due to adverse weather conditions.
Despite the unfortunate incidents during the swimming segment of the race, the event carried on, allowing other participants to complete it.
The organisers of a half Ironman triathlon in Co Cork that two competitors died in were told by the national governing body for triathlons that the event could not be sanctioned following a water safety assessment, Triathlon Ireland has said https://t.co/4trEyPrdLp
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Darren Coombes, the Chief Executive of Triathlon Ireland, clarified that the swim race hadn't been 'sanctioned' due to "unfavorable conditions on the day."
He stated, "For the Ironman Cork event, in accordance with standard protocol, technical officials from Triathlon Ireland conducted an assessment of conditions and water safety prior to the race's commencement. Given the adverse conditions on the day, our technical officials communicated to the race organizers that sanctioning the race was not feasible."
"With an ongoing investigation, it's not appropriate for us to provide extensive commentary at this stage. However, we want to emphasize that Triathlon Ireland is ready to offer any support necessary to the authorities," he added.
The event organisers also expressed their sorrow, saying, "We are deeply saddened to confirm the loss of two participants during the Ironman 70.3 Ireland, Cork 2023 event. Swift medical attention was provided by safety personnel upon realizing that the athletes required assistance during the swim portion on Sunday."
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends of these athletes, and we will remain by their side during this incredibly challenging time. We extend our gratitude to the prompt responders and first aid providers who swiftly attended to the athletes' medical needs. Out of respect for privacy, we will abstain from further commentary."
