A MAN has died while taking part in an adventure race in Co. Galway.
The man, aged in his 40s, was competing in the Gaelforce West race when he fell ill during the final stage in the Maamturk mountain range.
Oraganisers Gaelforce said they were 'deeply saddened' by the news.
"We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of a competitor at Gaelforce West today," said a statement.
"We will not be releasing any details of the competitor.
"At 12:21 race control was notified that a competitor had become ill on the final section of the race route.
'Deepest condolences'
"The event marshals responded to the scene immediately.
"The emergency plan was activated and the emergency services, including helicopter support, were called to the scene.
"Despite all of the care given to the competitor he did not survive.
"The competitor’s next of kin have been notified.
"We extend our deepest condolences to the friends and family of the competitor and ask that their privacy is respected at this time."
Gardaí confirmed that emergency services attended the scene of a medical emergency in the area at around 1pm on Saturday and that a man in his 40s was taken to a nearby hospital.
The near 60km Gaelforce West event includes running, cycling and kayaking stages.
The final stage is a 450m ascent of Búcán in the Maamturks before descending to the finish line.
