Participant dies during Nantucket Triathlon water segment, organizers say

The participant passed away during the swim portion of the race.

A Nantucket Triathlon participant died while competing in the swimming segment of the race on Saturday morning, a race organizer confirmed.

The identity of the deceased had not been released as of Monday night.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm that a participant in this weekend’s triathlon experienced a medical emergency during the swim portion of the race and, despite immediate medical attention, tragically passed away,” Bill Burnett, founder of race organizer Streamline Events, said in a statement.

Emergency responders were alerted to the participant, who was unresponsive, just after 7 a.m, 7 News Boston reported. Lifeguards brought the participant to shore, and they were transported to Nantucket Cottage Hospital where they were pronounced dead, the station reported.

The Nantucket Triathlon course spans across the whole island. It consists of swimming 600 yards, biking 13.5 miles, and running 3.5 miles.

“We ask that the entire island and all visiting athletes stand with and support the family and friends impacted by this tragedy,” Burnett said. “They need our love and prayers.”