Ironman organizers have been ordered to hold off the race until the competitors have been killed.

Brendan Wall (left) and Ivan Chittenden Photo: RET.ie

Ironman organizers have been warned not to hold swimming events in the east coast of Ireland where two runners died in stormy conditions.

Triathlon Ireland, the national governing body, said it had conducted a water safety assessment and told race organizers it was not possible to sanction Ironman Cork. swim “because of the unfavorable conditions of the day”.

The body's remarks came after two men in their 40s and 60s died participating in an event on Sunday morning held at Claycastle Beach in Yougale.

The triathlon was rescheduled to Sunday from the day before due to Hurricane Betty brought severe weather to the region over the weekend, including flooding and high winds.

Ivan Chittenden, 64, and Brendan Wall, who was in their 40s, competed in the 70.3-mile Ironman semi-final heat, which consists of a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) swim, 56-mile bike, and 13-mile run. 1 mile.

Mr. Chittenden was from Toronto, Canada, and Mr. Wall, originally from County Meath, lived in Solihull, England.

Mr. the staff pronounced both men dead. The officers ruled out any criminal investigation into their deaths.

Triathlon Ireland Chief Executive Darren Coombs said the organization was “reeled” by news of the tragic deaths.

“As the investigation is ongoing, it is not appropriate for us at this stage to make any further comment other than to state that Triathlon Ireland will provide any assistance that the authorities require,” he added.

“ Finally, we reiterate our deepest condolences go out to the families of Ivan Chittenden and Brendan Wall.”

A statement from the organizers of the event, Ironman Ireland, said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of the bi-race participants of Ironman 70.3 Ireland, Cork 2023.

< p>“During Sunday’s race swim, security personnel provided immediate medical attention upon learning that the athletes needed help.”

“ We share our deepest condolences to the families and friends of the athletes and will continue to offer them our support when they are going through this very difficult time.”

The organizers added that they had “no further comment” on the incident “regarding the privacy of families and athletes”.

Council County Cork said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic loss.”