MOSSEL BAY – Two athletes competing in the Ironman 70.3 Mossel Bay triathlon tragically died in the swimming leg of the event this morning (Sunday 16 November).
In a statement issued on social media, Ironman South Africa confirmed the incidents.
“We are deeply saddened to share that two race participants from today’s Ironman 70.3 Mossel Bay triathlon have passed away. During the swim portion of the event, safety personnel responded to two separate incidents, approximately 15 minutes apart.”
According to the organisers, one athlete was extracted at approximately 400 m and the other at around 1 000 m.
“Each athlete was taken to the designated extraction point for urgent medical care, before being transported in individual ambulances to hospital,” the statement continued.
“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.”
According to Southern Cape police spokesperson Sergeant Christopher Spies, the men aged 29 and 58, were retrieved from the water around 07:40.
“Preliminary reports available suggest that two men aged 29 and 58, believed to be participants of an event, were retrieved from the water about 07:40 on Sunday 16 November,” he shared.
“Autopsies to determine the cause of death will be conducted later this week.”
Spies added that no foul play is suspected.
