Tragedy as two Ironman opponents die after Storm Betty batters coast

Two males have died throughout an Ironman competitors within the Republic of Ireland.

The opponents, one among whom was aged in his 40s and the opposite in his 60s, died within the swimming phase of the triathlon held at Front Strand Beach, Youghal, County Cork.

They had been carried from the ocean by members of the emergency companies earlier than being pronounced lifeless by paramedics.

Gardai imagine there was no foul play and are treating the deaths as a tragic incident.

Video footage confirmed a whole bunch of opponents battling towards a swell for the beginning of the 1.9km swim.

The two males are believed to have died in two separate incidents. One of the lads is believed to be an Irish citizen who had been dwelling in Britain whereas the second man is known to be Canadian, accoridng to news web site CorkBeo.

Ironman Ireland launched a press release on its Facebook web page which learn: “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, security personnel supplied instant medical consideration upon recognising the athletes had been in want of help.

“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 protection personnel and first responders who labored rapidly to offer the athletes with medical help.”

The event had been postponed from Saturday due to Storm Betty which barrelled across Ireland into the Irish Sea and over parts of the UK.

Cork County Council, which backed the event, said in a statement it was “deeply saddened” over the “tragic loss” of the two race participants.

It added: “Our deepest sympathies exit to the households and mates of the athletes at this extremely tough time.

“Our thoughts are with those who have been affected, and we are currently offering every assistance required to the IRONMAN GROUP and all those impacted.

“We want to specific our gratitude to the response companies concerned, together with our devoted Fire and Emergency personnel.”