Close observers of the affair believe litigation may be imminent. Ironman International, the New York-based organiser of the Youghal event, is in deep dispute with Triathlon Ireland, the State-funded national governing body for the sport, over the circumstances in which the race began.
Contrary to Triathlon Ireland’s stance, Ironman has insisted it learned of the decision not to sanction the Youghal race only “several hours after the swim was completed”. The swim is the first part of a triathlon, followed by the cycling leg and then the running race. There was no comment from Ironman on the dispute. Triathlon Ireland did not reply to questions about the threat to issue a defamation action. Neither organisation has provided proof to back up their opposing assertions.The Triathlon Ireland website said its insurance did not cover contestants in a “non-sanctioned” race.