Two men have died while taking part in the Ironman Triathlon in Youghal. 

In a statement this afternoon, Ironman Ireland confirmed the deaths of the two men taking part in the 70.3 event in separate incidents. 

It said the participants got into difficulty during the swimming portion of the race. 

Organisers said safety personnel provided immediate medical attention when they recognised the athletes were in need of assistance. 

"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," it said in a statement.

The organisation has also thanked the safety personnel and first responders for their actions. 

Organisers cancelled the Ironman 70.3, also known as the Half Ironman, on Saturday due to the debris and flooding left by Storm Betty. 

This morning, the swim course for the full Ironman was shortened to 1.9km.