ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. — UPDATE 8:30 p.m.: Game On! Race Events confirmed that a 51-year-old male athlete experienced a medical emergency during the swim portion of the Ponte Vedra Beach Triathlon and later died.
Read the full statement below:
“It is with great sorrow that Game On! Race Events confirms a critical incident during the Ponte Vedra Beach sprint distance triathlon this morning. A 51-year-old male triathlete experienced a medical emergency during the swim portion of the event. The athlete received immediate medical attention and was transported to the hospital. The sport of triathlon lost a member of our beloved community today. We share our deepest condolences with his family and friends and respect their privacy during this difficult time.”
ORIGINAL STORY: A participant at the Game On! Ponte Vedra Beach Triathlon drowned early Sunday morning, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
The victim has not been identified and authorities are notifying their next of kin.
STORY: Lanes reopen on Mayport Road after police activity, no injuries
According to the First Alert Weather Team, there was a moderate rip current risk due to low tides at 5 a.m. on Sunday morning.
On the event’s website, the triathlon is listed as sold out with 465 total event participants. It is unclear how many lifeguards were in attendance.
Action News Jax has reached out to the race director for more information.
The triathlon began around 6:30 a.m. at Mickler’s Landing in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. Participants took part in various athletic events, including an Olympic-distance triathlon in the Atlantic Ocean.
This is a developing story. Be sure to check back for more updates.