By Tuquyen Mach
Media General News Service
Published: May 10, 2008

Panama City Beach—A competitor in Saturday’s Gulf Coast Triathlon is rushed to the hospital during the swim portion of the race.

It was around 7 a.m. as the swim portion of the race was happening behind the Boardwalk Beach Resort.

Race officials say a 37-year-old Georgia man was pulled out of the water during the return leg.

He was rushed to the hospital by ambulance but later pronounced dead. His name is not being released at this time.

Race officials released the following statement: “A tragic incident occurred during the swim portion of the 2008 Gulf Coast Triathlon. The Gulf Coast Triathlon, its volunteers, participants and committee, are heartbroken for the family’s loss. Our focus now is to do all we can to help the family in its grief. Please keep the family in your prayers.”