Adverse weather conditions meant the organisers of yesterday’s Ironman Cork event were told “it was not possible to sanction the race”, Triathlon Ireland has said.
Two men died while participating in the event and Triathlon Ireland CEO Darren Coombes said their deaths have "had a devastating effect on all of us.”
44-year-old Meath man Brendan Wall and 65-year-old Canadian Ivan Chittenden both got into difficulty during the swimming section of the event.
The cause of their deaths remains unknown and Gardaí have said post-mortem results combined with witness statements will form part of a file being prepared for the coroner.
Safety assessment
In a statement, Triathlon Ireland said, “In line with normal practice, Triathlon Ireland Technical Officials attended before the start of the race to review the conditions and carry out a water safety assessment.
“Due to adverse conditions on the day, Triathlon Ireland Technical Officials confirmed to the race organisers that it was not possible to sanction the race," it said.
“As there is an investigation ongoing, at this stage, it would not be appropriate for us to make any further comment, only to state that Triathlon Ireland will provide any assistance that the authorities require.
“Finally, we reiterate our deepest condolences to the families of Ivan Chittenden and Brendan Wall.”
Ironman
In an earlier statement event organisers Ironman said: "With all Ironman events, our utmost priority is the safety of our athletes and all others involved in the event."
"The weather conditions were monitored carefully over the weekend with the Ironman 70.3 Triathlon being rescheduled to take place on Sunday, alongside Ironman Ireland Cork to provide a safer race for athletes on the morning of Sunday.
"Officials and the on-swim safety team carried out all standard safety protocol checks that are completed at every race and determined water conditions were safe for the swim to take place.
"Due to the prevailing weather conditions, the decision was made, however, to shorten the distance of the swim as a further precaution to ensure that the significant water safety assets - such as kayaks, lifeguards and medical boats - could be concentrated over a smaller area, while also allowing swimmers the ability to swim with the help of a more favourable current and incoming tide after the first 100 meters.
"Our thoughts continue to be with the family and friends of the two athletes who passed."
Mr Wall’s funeral will take place on Thursday in the Church of St Brigid, Grangegeeth, County Meath.
