Former Team USA triathlete Spencer Korwin died after going for an early morning swim during a family holiday on Shelter Island, New York. He was 38.
Korwin entered the water from the private dock at The Pridwin Hotel shortly after 8am on Wednesday, September 2. When he failed to return, his wife alerted hotel employees, who contacted the emergency services.
Extensive search ended near the dock
According to LADbible’s account of the incident, marine units, drones, divers and a United States Coast Guard helicopter took part in the search.
Korwin was eventually located underwater near the dock at approximately 3pm. The Shelter Island Reporter quoted local police as saying that his death was believed to be an accidental drowning and that there was no indication of criminal activity. The Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office was tasked with establishing the official cause and manner of death.
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Witnesses described the weather and surface conditions that morning as apparently calm. Authorities had not determined whether tides, currents or another medical or environmental factor contributed to the tragedy.
Even experienced swimmers can face danger
Korwin qualified to represent the United States in 2012 and competed at the Triathlon World Championships in Auckland, New Zealand. After his competitive career, he worked as a trainer before establishing Korwin Health & Wellness in Manhattan.
His experience as an endurance athlete has made the circumstances particularly shocking. Shelter Island Police Chief Jim Read said the area was not generally regarded as dangerous, but warned that tides, currents and boat traffic must always be considered in open water.
“Even strong and experienced swimmers should never underestimate open water or changing conditions,” Read said in a local water-safety report.
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Korwin had been visiting the island with his wife and their two young daughters. A fund established for the children’s future education received substantial support in the days following his death, reflecting the scale of the loss felt by his family, friends and sporting community.
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