Tragedy struck triathlon on Sunday when two athletes died during IRONMAN 70.3 Ireland in Cork.

IRONMAN Ireland confirmed the terrible news on their social media channels shortly after 12noon UK time, with the following statement:

“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, safety personnel provided immediate medical attention upon recognising the athletes were in need of assistance.

Fallout to Ireland tragedy

“We share our greatest sympathies with the families and friends of the athletes and will continue to offer them support as they go through this very difficult time.

“We thank the safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical assistance.”

Sunday’s race had originally been scheduled to take place on Saturday but was moved to Sunday as a result of debris on the bike course caused by Storm Betty.

IRONMAN Ireland also announced changes to the swim course on Sunday morning due to water conditions – with both the 70.3 and the full-distance race being set at 1.9km.