Tributes to triathlete who died after competition

A seating area, a finish line and some lanes in the foreground, with a lake at the rear
Image caption,

Mr Sanders was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre after taking part in a race at Holme Pierrepont Country Park

  • Published

Tributes have been paid to a triathlete who died after a competition at a Nottinghamshire park.

Nottinghamshire Police said John Sanders suffered a medical episode while taking part in the Triathlon England National Club Relays Championships at Holme Pierrepont Country Park, near Colwick, on 24 August.

He was taken to the Queen's Medical Centre, in Nottingham, where he later died.

The Tri Society, which organised the event, said Mr Sanders, 61, from Cheshire, was a "much-loved" member of the triathlon community.

'Sorely missed'

In a statement on social media, the society said: "Following on from last weekend's tragic events we, with the family’s permission, would like to put a name and face to the athlete who sadly passed away.

"John Sanders, 61, from Cheshire, was a much loved member of the triathlon, cycling and swimming community and made so many memories with so many people.

"He will be sorely missed. Rest in peace, John."

Triathlon clubs and individual athletes from around the country have paid tribute to Mr Sanders in posts on social media since the race.

British Triathlon, the sport's governing body, said its sympathies were with Mr Sanders' friends and family.

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