WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) -- A participant in the 7th annual PPD Beach2Battleship Triathlon has died after a medical emergency during Saturday's event.
During a news conference late Saturday night, organizers said Roger Ackerman 68, died from a cardiac episode during the swim portion this morning.
Ackerman had heart problems prior to the event, but was giving approval by his doctor to participate in the half marathon.
According to a news release earlier in the day, from the Wilmington Family YMCA and Set Up Events, event staff responded and provided emergency care.
Event organizers say they will conduct a thorough investigation based on the incident and further examination.