Two participants lost their lives during the 1.9km swim portion of the Ironman event in Cork’s Youghal Harbour, located approximately 270km south of Dublin.

The deceased individuals have been identified as Brendan Wall, 45, from Ireland, and Ivan Chittenden, 64, from Toronto. It is important to note that both deaths occurred separately. In the event known as the Half Ironman, participants engaged in a rigorous competition that encompassed a 90-kilometre bike course and a 21.1-kilometre run.

In footage shared on the internet, a multitude of swimmers can be seen embarking on the challenging swim portion, braving the turbulent waters of the bay amidst overcast skies and blustery conditions. In a statement issued following the tragic deaths of the men, Triathlon Ireland revealed that safety officials did not grant their official approval for Sunday’s event.

The decision was made due to the adverse weather conditions, which rendered the water unsafe and unable to meet the organization’s stringent safety standards. According to the individual, the decision had been previously confirmed with the race organisers.

In a statement released by CEO Darren Coombes, it was revealed that Triathlon Ireland technical officers have confirmed the impossibility of sanctioning the race due to the unfavourable conditions on the day. In light of the ongoing investigation, Triathlon Ireland has declined to provide further comments at this time.

However, they have assured that they will cooperate fully with the authorities and offer any necessary assistance as required. According to Ironman, Triathlon Ireland failed to inform organisers about their decision to not impose penalties on the race until after its completion. In an email received, it was stated that Ironman Ireland officials were informed of the disapproval of the event sanction several hours after the swim was completed.

In a bid to ensure the safety and fairness of sporting events, organisers have implemented a system of sanctions. These measures are put in place to verify that the event adheres to local regulations and meets the standards expected by athletes, coaches, and the general public. Triathlon Ireland, the country’s governing body, would have served as the official sanctioning organisation for the Ironman event in Cork.

According to Ironman, the race has been postponed by one day due to safety concerns arising from severe weather conditions. In a decision made by the organisers, it has been determined that the swimming portion will be shortened.

In a statement released on Sunday August 20, Ironman Ireland officials and the swim specific safety team confirmed that they had conducted the necessary safety protocol checks, as is customary before every race.

Following these checks, it was determined that the water conditions were deemed safe for the swimming portion of the event to proceed. In a recent development, an email has been read. In a decision made with safety as the top priority, it has been determined that the swim course for both races will be shortened, despite the fact that conditions have shown signs of improvement since Saturday.

According to an online obituary, Chittenden was described as an experienced triathlete who had participated in competitions across the globe.Iván, a seasoned runner, transitioned into the world of endurance athletics during his early 50s, as he himself revealed. The individual in question has participated in Ironman races across various countries, including Canada and Zell am See, Austria.

Additionally, they have successfully finished all six of the renowned World Marathon Majors, namely Berlin, Boston, Chicago, London, New York, and Tokyo. In a tragic turn of events, Chittenden has left behind a grieving wife and two stepsons.

The individual known as Wall hailed from Ireland but had resided in the United Kingdom. Triathlon Ireland and Ironman have expressed their condolences to the families of the men. According to reports, an investigation is currently underway.