Tragedy as Scots ironman athlete, 31, dies during triathlon in Wales
RACE TRAGEDY Tragedy as Scots ironman athlete, 31, dies during triathlon in Wales
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A SCOT has died during the swimming leg of a gruelling triathlon in Wales aged just 31.
Sam Buchan travelled more than 400 miles from Scotland to compete in the Swansea Ironman triathlon on Sunday July 13.
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SWANSEA, WALES - JULY 13: Athletes gather at the waterfront ahead of the swimming leg during the 2025 IRONMAN 70.3 Swansea on July 13, 2025 in Swansea, Wales. (Photo byfor Ironman)
He had to be rescued from the water in the swimming leg and died three days later in hospital.
The Ironman event included a 1.2-mile swim in Prince of Wales Dock, a 56-mile bike course through the coastal roads and countryside of Gower, and a 13.1-mile run along the Mumbles.
It follows the tragic death of grandfather Andrew Ireland, 61, of Bridgend, South Wales, in 2023 when he drowned during the 750feet swim in the first section of the gruelling three-part race.
Mr Buchan was named by the Swansea coroner before an inquest is due to be opened - but it was not disclosed where about in Scotland he was from.
Ironman Wales said: "It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of an athlete who competed in last weekend's Ironman 70.3 Swansea triathlon.
"Approximately half-way into the swim portion of the race, swim safety personnel noticed and responded to an athlete in difficulty.
"The athlete received immediate medical care while being taken via boat to a designated extraction point on the harbour, where further treatment was administered."
Their post continued: "Our deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the athlete."
Around 1,500 competitors set off for competition before both athletes and families witnessed attempts to rescue the grandfather.
Mr Ireland was described him as a 'loving husband, father and grandfather who will be greatly missed' after he died two years ago.
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He was among hundreds of other swimmers when he lost consciousness during the swim section of the three-event challenge
At the time a statement from Activity Wales said: '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.'
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