Triathalon swim deaths 2008 rising. What is going on?
Former Member
What is going on and why are autopsys coming back "cause of death unknown." The numbers are concerning, but the lack of explanation is really bothering me. It makes me feel as if something is being hidden. We have come a long way with CT scans, PET scans, x-rays, serum chemical analysis. I don't buy "cause of death unknown" with modern day capabilities.
Chaos, thanks for those observations. Some demonstration of competence, especially if deep water is involved, would seem logical.
The increased number of triathletes probably underlies the increase in reported number of deaths. Swimming is the leg least well prepared for; many swimmers do not have opportunity to practice in open water, and when physical defense and fear are suddenly added to the mix, the course can take a different turn from expected.
An autopsy is necessary but not (always) sufficient to establish cause of death. Some rare causes must be sought specifically. The family may decide against an autopsy (although I believe most jurisdictions require one for "unnatural" deaths). I like the eighteenth-century catch-all phrase: death from misadventure.
It probably remains the case that driving to the venue poses greater risk to life and limb than participating in a triathlon.
Condolences to the families of the swimmers.
VB
Chaos, thanks for those observations. Some demonstration of competence, especially if deep water is involved, would seem logical.
The increased number of triathletes probably underlies the increase in reported number of deaths. Swimming is the leg least well prepared for; many swimmers do not have opportunity to practice in open water, and when physical defense and fear are suddenly added to the mix, the course can take a different turn from expected.
An autopsy is necessary but not (always) sufficient to establish cause of death. Some rare causes must be sought specifically. The family may decide against an autopsy (although I believe most jurisdictions require one for "unnatural" deaths). I like the eighteenth-century catch-all phrase: death from misadventure.
It probably remains the case that driving to the venue poses greater risk to life and limb than participating in a triathlon.
Condolences to the families of the swimmers.
VB
