Following yesterday’s tragic death of an age group athlete at its Naples, Florida, triathlon weekend, HITS Endurance – the umbrella brand that includes HITS Triathlon Series and HITS Running Festivals – has released a statement:
HITS Endurance, based in Saugerties, NY, producers of over 60 endurance races in over 12 locations around the country, regret the unfortunate passing of a competitor in today’s Sprint Distance Triathlon race in Naples, FL.
The fatality (cardiac arrest) occurred during the swim portion at Vanderbilt Beach. The Sprint distance included 300 competitors, including 180 male athletes, with a 750 meter swim segment. “We at HITS are saddened by this terrible tragedy. The safety of all competitors is, and continues to be, our first priority. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the deceased,” said Tom Struzzieri, CEO of HITS, who was present on-site.
“It is small consolation, but should be noted, that the professionals hired to be sure that the swim was the safest possible experience, were positioned, trained and tirelessly endeavoured to save the swimmer’s life. Even though only 300 athletes, separated into two heats, were swimming in the race at the time, we had fifteen certified lifeguards on duty as well as the North Naples Fire Rescue boat with a medic/EMT aboard.
“In addition, the ALS (Advanced Life Support) Unit headed by E.R. Physician Dr James Augustine was at the race site as well,” added Struzzieri.
According to the organisers, the Sprint distance event is the most popular format for HITS athletes. It is understood that the male competitor was approximately 60 years old and was found unresponsive in the water at Vanderbilt Beach.
