Two people die in swimming portion of Ironman Cork triathlon competition in Ireland

Two people died when competing the swimming portion of an Ironman triathlon competition in Ireland.

The deaths occurred in the Ironman Cork competition taking place in the southern city of Youghal. Local media reported the two people, two men in their 40s and 60s, were in separate incidents during the swim and emergency services were dispatched into the water.

"We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of two race participants," race organizers said in a statement on Facebook. "During the swim portion of Sunday’s race, safety personnel provided immediate medical attention upon recognizing the athletes were in need of assistance."

Officials did not reveal any details of the deaths. The race was originally scheduled for Saturday, but it was postponed a day due to a storm in the area. Prior to the start of the competition, race officials shortened the length of the swimming portion from 3.8 kilometers (2.36 miles) to 1.9 kilometers (1.18 miles) due to the "current conditions of the water." Sky News reported competitors were allowed to continue and finish the competition.

"We thank the safety personnel and first responders who worked quickly to provide the athletes with medical assistance," race officials said.