Cork Ironman event cancelled for 2024 after death of Slane man

The organisers of the Ironman triathlon in Co Cork have announced that the event is not going ahead in 2024 after a Slane man died in this year’s race.

45 year old Brendan Wall passed away during the competition in Youghal in August. Canadian man Ivan Chittenden, 64 also died during the event.

Both men died in separate incidents. They were taking part in a swim section when they got into difficulties.

Mr Wall was originally from Cardrath near Slane but was living in Solihull in the UK.

In a statement, the US triathlon group said it will "take a hiatus" from the event next year.

"Cork County and the town of Youghal has become a much-loved home for Ironman in Ireland, and the Irish triathlon community is important to us.

"This pause will allow for further healing while we spend the next year assessing the best path forward to deliver an exceptional weekend of racing once again for our athletes in one of the most passionate host communities in the world."

Supported by Cork County Council, the event is worth an estimated €20 million to the local economy and will come as a huge blow to the local community, still reeling from the deaths of the two competitors.

However, Ironman said it is committed to bringing the event back to east Cork in 2025.

"We are thankful for the support of Cork County Council and we appreciate their continued partnership and commitment as we work collectively towards bringing back the event in the strongest way possible in 2025 and beyond.”

Earlier this year, mourners at the funeral of Brendan Wall were told that the accomplished athlete "waved goodbye" with a "big smile" as he entered the water.

Addressing the congregation, Fr Gerry Boyle, parish priest, said Brendan "lived life with passion, vigour, energy and love”.

Fr Boyle said that the Grangegeeth man had "trained hard" for the Ironman competition.

"He also loved the physical outdoors sports and completed the London Marathon in 2012, The Ring of Kerry Cycle and the Gael Force Endurance Cycle. He trained hard and no doubt it gave him purpose and direction in his life.

"He had trained hard for the Iron Man on Sunday, he was really excited about it and he had a big smile on his face and waved goodbye as he entered the water. Tina and his family were there to wave him off as were his in-laws - it was an occasion of pride and joy. In a short time, that turned to sorrow and loss."