Contestant dies during Swansea triathlon

A 61-year-old man has died during the swim stage of a triathlon event in Swansea, organisers have said.

The triathlete, who has not been named, was pronounced dead after emergency services and members of the public tried to help him at the scene.

In a statement, the organiser, Activity Wales Events, said “it is with heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of an athlete” during the swim section of the triathlon event on Sunday, adding its “most sincere condolences go out to the family”.

“We would like to thank the incredible efforts of the swim safety team, St John Ambulance, the rapid response team, the police, volunteers and members of the public involved at the scene”.

The Welsh ambulance service said it had been called out to a medical emergency in Swansea at about 9.15am.

A spokesperson said: “We sent a rapid response vehicle, an emergency ambulance, and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service. We were also supported by St John Ambulance.”

Up to 1,500 people entered the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) triathlon, which entails a 750-metre swim, 20km bike ride and 5km run.

Staff and students from the university help to organise the annual event, described as one of the leading one-day, sprint distance triathlons in the country and the centre piece of the Swansea Triathlon festival in the city.

A spokesperson for UWTSD told WalesOnline: “The university is sad to hear the news that an individual has passed away during the Swansea Triathlon today. As sponsors of the event, we send our deepest condolences to the family and those affected by this tragedy.”

A spokesperson from South Wales police said: “We can confirm that a 61-year-old man who was participating in the Swansea Triathlon yesterday