Monday, 15 August 2016 - 12:30
Swimmer dies in water during Den Helder to Texel event
A 56-year-old man die on Saturday while participating in the four kilometer swimming event from Den Helder to Texel. He fell ill along the way, a spokesperson for the organizers said to NU.nl.
The organization called the man's death a "tragedy". It is not clear what exactly went wrong or why the man became unwell.
According to the organization, the swim is extremely difficult. All participants were warned that proper preparation is a necessity.
The other swimmers finished in good health and arrived on Texel safely. A minute of silence was held for the man who did not make it.