A British man has died during the World Triathlon championship in southern Spain today.
He was among two athletes who suffered a heart attack and died minutes apart during the competition in the city of Torremolinos, in Andalusia, west of Málaga.
Local media named the Brit as Mark John, aged 57. The second victim as Roger Mas, 79, from Mexico.
Both were competing as veterans and were facing a 750-metres swim, a 12-mile cycle and a three-mile run.
Mr John fell ill, collapsing on the ground during the first mile of the run, Malaga Hoy reported.
People rushed to the scene to try and resuscitate him, but nothing could be done to save him.
Just minutes earlier Mr Mas also suffered a heart attack while doing the swimming part of the triathlon.
A statement released by the World Triathlon said: ‘It is with deep sadness that we can inform that two participants (one from Mexico; one from Britain) have died at the World Triathlon Torremolinos-Andalucía AG Sprint Distance World Championships, taking place today, October 17.
‘Our deepest condolences go to their respective family, friends, National Federations and all the triathlon family.
‘World Triathlon, the Spanish Federation and the LOC are in contact with their families and NFs to provide all the support needed in these difficult and sad times.
More than 5,500 triathletes from more than 80 countries flocked to Torremolinos to take part in the event.
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