Two men have died while taking part in an Ironman event in Youghal in Co Cork yesterday.
Both men were participants in the event and they died in separate incidents. They were taking part in a swim section when they got into difficulties.
Both men, one aged in his mid-60s and the other in his mid-40s, were pronounced dead at the scene. They were talking part in the Ironman 70.3, also known as a half ironman.
It is understood that one of the men is Irish, but has been living in the UK, while the other man is from Canada.
The bodies have been taken to Cork University Hospital where post mortem examinations will be carried out.
A file will be prepared for the Cork County Coroner's Court at a later stage.
Gardaí said that the two men were removed from the water by emergency services. They were pronounced dead by medical personnel.
In a social media post, Ironman Ireland said that due to weather conditions at the time, the swim course for both the Ironman 70.3 and the full distance event were shortened to 1.9km.
"This means that we can focus all of our swim safety crew on delivering the safest possible swim for all of our athletes," the Facebook post from 6.50am yesterday morning stated.
The event continued with a 90km cycle and a long-distance run.
In a statement, Cork County Council said it is "deeply saddened over the tragic loss".
"Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and friends of the athletes at this incredibly difficult time," the council said in a statement this afternoon.
"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 wish to express our gratitude to the response agencies involved, including our dedicated Fire and Emergency personnel, for their unwavering efforts during this this difficult time."
Ironman Ireland said it is "deeply saddened" to confirm the deaths.
"During the swim portion of Sunday's race, safety personnel provided immediate medical attention upon recognising the athletes were in need of assistance," the social media statement added.
"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 safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical assistance."
