Wauwatosa Native Dies in Texas Ironman

WAUWATOSA, WI — A Wauwatosa native died Saturday while participating in an Ironman triathlon in Texas.

According to an ABC 13 report out of The Woodlands, Texas, Glen Bruemmer, 54, an experienced triathlete died during the swimming portion of Saturday's event in Lake Woodlands, according to law enforcement.

Spectators jumped in to help pull Bruemmer out.

"You could tell he was passed out. He wasn't aware," Amber McAffee said in the ABC 13 report. "They were flipping him over, and he was totally unresponsive. They were screaming. I mean, it was just chaos."

"It was during the 2.4-mile swim, not too far from the end. They saw him leaning to the side, he was unresponsive. They did CPR for about 45 minutes," Mary Bruemmer said in a Journal Sentinel report today.

Race officials released the following statement concerning the death:

"We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of one of our athletes at today's IRONMAN North American Championship Texas triathlon. The athlete required medical attention during the swim portion of Saturday's race and was transported to a nearby hospital where they were treated. Our condolences go out to the athlete's family and friends, whom we have been in contact with and will continue to support. As with any event of this nature, we will work with the local authorities to gather all the details on how this incident occurred and will continue to do everything possible to provide a safe environment for our athletes."

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