ADA TOWNSHIP, Mich. - A 61-year-old California man died while competing in the Grand Rapids Triathlon, organizers confirmed.
Gary Grunwald, from Elk Grove, California, was running in the USAT Clydesdale & Athena National Championship, which is hosted by the Grand Rapids Triathlon when he died on Sunday, June 10.
A spokesperson for the USA Triathlon and Tris4Health Race Management Company said they were "deeply saddened" by Grunwald's passing.
The sport lost a member of its beloved community, and we extend our heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family and friends.
The Kent County Sheriff's Office says that Grunwald suffered a medical emergency while participating in the triathlon. He had chest pains and shortness of breath near one of the race transition areas. Resuscitation efforts were immediately provided to the 61-year-old, and he was transported to Spectrum Health where he was pronounced dead.
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April Stevens is a multi-platform producer at WZZM 13. Have a news tip? Email news@wzzm13.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter.