Plaque to be unveiled in Youghal in memory of two men who died in Ironman 2023
Brendan Ivan Wall And Chittenden
A commemorative plaque is to be unveiled at Youghal’s Front Strand later this month in honour of the two athletes who lost their lives during last year’s Ironman triathlon.
Family members of Brendan Wall (45) and Ivan Chittenden (64) will travel from County Meath and Toronto, Canada respectively for the ceremony.
The commemoration has been organised by a committee drawn from the local community, supported by both families.
Committee member Tommy Collins, who helped host a vigil in the men’s honour in the days following the tragedies, said: “We feel this is an appropriate and permanent way for people to honour the memory of the men who died and also to remind their families that while taken far too soon, they will never be forgotten."
The stone plaque, fashioned by local stonemason Adrian Budds, will be unveiled at the spot where the swim challenge commenced on the morning of August 20 2023.
Mr Wall was unresponsive when recovered from the water at Green Hole transition point, at the lower end of Lighthouse Hill.
Mr Chittenden was taken from the sea closer to the Front Strand at the hill’s upper end by Youghal lighthouse.
An inquest into how the men came to lose their lives opened with a short hearing last month, with State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster giving evidence that both men had suffered acute cardiorespiratory failure due to drowning.
The main purpose of the hearing was to enable the families to register the deaths.
The inquest was adjourned until September 24 for mention, when it is hoped that a date for a full hearing will be set.
Family members of both the deceased attended the hearing, as did representatives from Ironman and from Triathlon Ireland.
The deaths left an indelible sadness on the town, with this year’s Ironman cancelled to allow more time for healing and as a mark of respect. It is expected to return in 2025.
Mr Wall’s sister, Maria, who lives in Youghal, has acknowledged the “truly incredible support” she has received from the local community throughout the past year.
The plaque will be unveiled at the Front Strand on Saturday August 24 at 6.30pm.