Family's heartbreaking tribute to dad who died during swim at triathlon

The heartbroken family of a man who died during a triathlon have paid tribute. Andrew Ireland died during the swim section at the Swansea Triathlon on Sunday, May 28.

The father, husband and grandfather will be 'greatly missed', his family said in a statement on Wednesday evening, WalesOnline reports.. In a tribute shared by Activity Wales Events, they said: "Andrew was a loving husband, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed. As a family we are heartbroken but have been comforted by the many messages of condolence and support we have received.

"Andrew was a charity worker for the homeless and an avid supporter of Welsh football. He was a keen cyclist and triathlete, a member of Tondu Wheelers and a parkrun regular.

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"We would like to thank the emergency services, event organisers, volunteers and members of the public who assisted at the scene."

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) Swansea Triathlon is one of the leading one-day sprint-distance triathlons in the country. Around 1,500 people were expected to take part in Sunday's event, which included a 750m swim, 20km bike ride and 5k run. It got underway at 8am and the last athlete was expected to complete the event at 11am.

A statement from Activity Wales Events at the time, read: "It is with heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of an athlete during the swim section of today’s Triathlon. Our most sincere condolences go out to the family.

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

A spokeswoman for UWTSD said: “The