A man who died while kite surfing on Dollymount beach in north Dublin this weekend has been named as Ger Fennelly.
The 39-year-old had competed in
triathlon at home and abroad and his club, Piranha Triathlon Club, said he was
a popular and dedicated member who often led the club’s group rides.
“Our club is in mourning as we sadly
learnt of the death of one of our longstanding and respected members, Ger
Fennelly,” the club said in a statement.
“Ger died tragically whilst kitesurfing
at Dollymount strand,” it said of his death on Saturday. “Ger was a vastly
experienced kitesurfer and had been kitesurfing for the past 14 years.
“Ger had been a member of Piranha since
2014. He was an active member and friendly face in the club.
“He volunteered his time and energy
freely, leading out many Sunday spins and always helping with the club race
DCT.
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“Ger loved triathlon, representing
Piranha at many triathlons around the country and abroad. He was always a
welcome sight at any club training session or race.
“He completed Ironman Barcelona in 2018
and inspired many with his achievement... whilst also living with Type 1
diabetes.
“Ger made a lasting impression on many
in the triathlon community and will be sorely missed by all who knew him. He
had a wonderfully positive outlook on life, was a kind soul and a true gentleman.”
The Irish Coast Guard, Howth, issued a
statement containing some of the detail of the emergency operation that was put
into action when Mr Fennelly got into difficulty.
“The Irish Coast Guard emergency
operations centre at 9.14am (on Saturday) received a call reporting a
kitesurfing incident on Dollymount Beach and requesting assistance for the
National Ambulance Service (NAS) and An Garda Síochána who were proceeding to
the scene.," it said.
“The Howth Coast Guard unit responded
quickly and along with NAS and Dublin Fire Brigade paramedics provided first
aid care.
"The casualty was transported off
the beach by Coast Guard 4x4s to an awaiting NAS ambulance at Dollymount
causeway.”
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