In a tragic turn of events, a 42-year-old man died during the swim leg of the Singapore International Triathlon 2017 (SIT) at East Coast Park on Sunday (Sept 10). Race officials said that he was competing in the swim portion of the relay competition when he started struggling in the sea and lost consciousness before he was rescued from the waters.
The Triathlon Association of Singapore stated that the man was given “immediate medical assistance” and attempts were made to resuscitate him. There was also a medical doctor on standby, as well as an automated external defibrillator and other medical equipment on location.
Unfortunately, he could not be revived. He was subsequently taken to Singapore General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. According to Channel NewsAsia, the incident happened around 9:55am, and the police were alerted to the case around 12:59pm.
Scottish amateur rugby club Glasgow Hawks identified the man as former player Briton Stephen Begley.
“Steve played for Glasgow Accies and Hawks for many seasons including the League and Cup double year 1998 and he also played in the historic win over Toulouse at Old Anniesland,” the club said. “The thoughts of everybody associated with Hawks and Glasgow rugby are with his brother Matt and the rest of his family at this very sad time.”
Police investigations are ongoing. The SIT said that it would share more details after the investigation has been completed.
This is the second time a death has happened at the race, which has been around since 1984, reported TODAY. The first time saw 42-year-old Calvin Lee lose consciousness during the swim leg in 2009. He died later at Changi General Hospital.
