Swansea triathlon swim tragedy: Family pays tribute to loving husband

The family of a man who passed away during the swim portion of the Swansea triathlon has expressed their grief and remembered him as a “loving husband, father and grandfather.” Activity Wales, the event organisers, confirmed that Andrew Ireland died during the event on Sunday.

In a statement, Ireland’s family conveyed their heartbreak, but also expressed gratitude for the numerous messages of condolence and support they have received. Ireland was an enthusiastic cyclist and triathlete, as well as a member of the Tondu Wheelers cycling club. He regularly participated in parkrun events.

In addition to his athletic pursuits, Ireland was actively involved in charity work for the homeless and was a passionate supporter of Welsh football. His family extended their appreciation to the emergency services, event organisers, volunteers, and members of the public who assisted Ireland at the scene. They stated that he would be “greatly missed.”

An estimated 1,500 participants were anticipated to compete in the University of Wales Trinity Saint David Swansea Triathlon over the weekend.

Activity Wales announced on Sunday that an athlete had died during the swim section of the triathlon. In a statement, they expressed their “sincere condolences to the family.”