Mark Stokes, 57, fell while running during the competition in Torremolinos, Costa del Sol, on Thursday – and was one of two triathletes who sadly died during the challenge
A runner has recalled the heartbreaking moment his fellow Brit pal collapsed and died during the final leg of a triathlon in Spain.
Mark Stokes, 57, fell while running during the competition in Torremolinos, Costa del Sol, on Thursday, and was one of two triathletes who tragically died on the same day while attempting the challenenge. The second man was named as Mexican athlete Roger Mas. Devastated friends of Mark, an engineering expert and consultant believed to be from Reading, Berkshire, paid touching tributes to him online.
Fellow triathlete Tim Donnelly Smith flew to Costa del Sol with Mark and had shared an apartment with him. He posted a photo of the two of them at a previous event, and recalled the horrific moment his pal had suddenly collpased on social media: “This week we have been in Torremolinos, Spain, for the World Triathlon Championships. This is a race for which we both qualified over a year ago, in Bournemouth, where we first met. We’ve raced together and kept in touch since.
“Here in Torremolinos we were sharing an apartment and travelled out together. We were both so excited to be here: World Championships? Us? Yes! Heartbreakingly on Thursday afternoon Mark collapsed in the final stages of the run leg of our race.
“Medics were unable to resuscitate him and the world changed in a split-second for many people, almost all of whom I have never met. I really wasn’t sure whether (or how) to write this post. But I concluded that writing it and tagging Mark is probably the best – the only – way I have of sending my condolences to all of his family, friends, colleagues and triathlon family. I’m so sorry for your loss. RIP, Mark.”
World Triathlon, the international governing body for the multi-sport disciplines, said earlier this week following both deaths: “It is with deep sadness that we can inform that two participants (one from Mexico; one from Great Britain) have died at the World Triathlon Torremolinos-Andalucía Age Group Sprint Distance World Championships, taking place today, October 17. Our deepest condolences go to their respective family, friends, National Federations and all the triathlon family.
“World Triathlon, the Spanish Federation and the Local Organising Committee are in contact with their families and NFs to provide all the support needed in these difficult and sad times.”
The 2024 World Triathlon Championship Finals kicked off on Thursday, October 17, in Torremolinos and finished on Sunday. The Mexican Triathlon Federation said in a statement following Roger Mas’ death: “It is with profound sadness that we inform of the death of Roger Man Colomer, 79, during the World Triathlon Championship on the afternoon of Thursday October 17 in Torremolinos. We deeply regret this and share the pain of his family and friends.”
