British fireman dies while swimming during triathlon in Majorca

A British fireman has died in front of his wife and parents after taking part in a triathlon in the Spanish island of Majorca.

According to Diario de Mallorca the 45-year-old was swimming off Tora beach during the first leg of the Challenge Peguera at 10am this morning when he began to feel unwell and drowned.

He taken out of the water but did not respond as beachside emergency responders attempted to resuscitate him for more than 40 minutes as his family watched.

The competitor was about 600 metres from the shore when he got into difficulty and had a cardiac arrest, according to emergency services.

Investigators say he suffered ‘symptoms of drowning’, but a post-mortem will confirm the cause of death.

A spokesman for the event said: ‘It is with deep regret that the organisers announce the death of a participant in the Challenge Peguera Mallorca 2019 triathlon event.

‘The athlete has required medical attention during the swimming segment and has been treated urgently by the medical services of the event.

‘Our condolences to all the family and people close to the athlete, whom we will continue to support.

‘We are working closely with the security forces and local authorities to gather all the details about this event.

‘All sporting events will be held, including this afternoon’s awards ceremony, and out of respect for the family, celebration events are suspended.

‘Out of respect for the family’s privacy, for the time being, we will not make any further comments.’