Deaths at the Youghal Ironman: what went wrong?

Since the announcement of the deaths of two men – Meath native Brendan Wall (45) and Canadian Ivan Chittenden (64), during the swimming stage of the Youghal Ironman – there have been many reports from eyewitnesses and participants about the choppy conditions all 2,000-plus competitors faced.

A key question is why the event was permitted to go ahead – or indeed if it went ahead with or without the approval of the governing body, Triathalon Ireland. As the week has gone on, no clear answers have emerged from that body or Ironman, the international group that organised the event. The answers have wide implications, not least the insurance status of all those who took part.

On this episode of In the News we hear from Ironman participant Stephen Donnelly – who came sixth in the competition on Sunday – and who explains how the day unfolded and how he faced the wild sea conditions; reporter Hugh Dooley who has been in Youghal talking to locals and competitors, and from Irish Times current affairs editor Arthur Beesley who explains the blame game and how it might play out. Presented by Bernice Harrison

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