Two men, including Durbanite, die during Ironman event

A DURBAN man was one of two participants who died during the Ironman African Championship in Port Elizabeth yesterday.

It was during the triathlon event’s one-lap, 3.8km swim course on Hobie Beach that the men experienced difficulties.

Police said inquest dockets were opened and that the incidents happened about 10 minutes apart.

“Two Ironman participants, Leon Stanvliet from George, 62, and Andre Trichardt, 57, from Durban died in hospital after they experienced difficulty in the swimming challenge. Post mortems will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death. Police have opened inquest dockets,” said police spokesperson Priscilla Naidu.

In a statement posted on their Facebook page, the organisers said: “It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of two race participants at the Ironman African Championship. Both athletes required medical attention during the swim portion of Sunday’s race and were transported to a nearby hospital where they were treated. Our condolences go out to the family and friends of both athletes, whom we will continue to support. We are working with the local authorities to gather all details and will continue to do everything possible to provide a safe environment for our athletes.”

Dozens of Facebook users posted messages of condolence.

Sponsor of the event Standard Bank also tweeted a condolence: “We are deeply saddened by the news of the two Standard Bank Ironman competitors who lost their lives during the swimming leg of the competition at Hobie Beach in PE this morning. Our hearts go out to their families and loved ones. #SBIronman @IMSouthAfrica.”

In the event, the top three PRO Women were Lucy Charles-Barclay, Gurutze Frades, and Annah Watkinson, while the top three males were Ben Hoffman, Nils Frommhold and Michael Weiss.