Athlete dies while swimming in Swansea Triathlon, organisers say

An athlete died while swimming in the Swansea Triathlon on Sunday morning.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Activity Events Wales - which runs the event with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) - said: "It is with heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of an athlete during the swim section of today's triathlon.

"Our most sincere condolences go out to the family.

"We would like to thank the incredible efforts of the swim safety team, St John Ambulance, the rapid response team, the police, volunteers and members of the public involved at the scene," the statement added.

The Welsh Ambulance Service told Sky News they were called to a medical emergency at 9.15am in Swansea.

"We sent a rapid response vehicle, an emergency ambulance, and the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service," a spokesman said.

"We were also supported by St John's Ambulance. This is all the information we can provide at this time."

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for UWTSD told WalesOnline: "The university is sad to hear the news that an individual has passed away during the Swansea Triathlon today.

"As sponsors of the event, we send our deepest condolences to the family and those affected by this tragedy."

Around 1,500 people were expected to compete in the triathlon today, which included a 750m swim, a 20km bike ride and a 5km run.

Sky News has contacted South Wales Police, who declined to comment, and St John Ambulance.