MOSSEL BAY NEWS - It has been confirmed by Ironman that two athletes died after being extracted from the water during the swim portion of the race this morning, 16 November.
Southern Cape Police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies previously told Mossel Bay Advertiser that the two men were aged 29 and 58.
Ironman told the Advertiser that during the swim, safety personnel responded to two separate incidents, about 15 minutes apart.
"One athlete was extracted at approximately 400 meters, and the other at around 1,000 meters. Each athlete was taken to the designated extraction point for urgent medical care, before being transported in individual ambulances to hospital," said Ironman.
"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," said Ironman.
"We also extend our sincere gratitude to the safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical support. In respect of the families and athletes' privacy during this time, we will have no further comment.”
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