The two men died during the swim section of the race, which took place just one day after Storm Betty brought strong winds and rough sea conditions to parts of the country. Evidence heard during the inquest described challenging conditions in the water, with swimmers facing strong currents and significant fatigue.
A total of 1,396 athletes participated in the event, while 52 competitors failed to complete the swim section, including the two men who died.
Following the conclusion of the inquest Brendan Wall's family expressed disappointment with the coroner's verdict of accidental death. Speaking on behalf of the family, Brendan's brother Martin Wall argued that the deaths of two competitors within ten minutes of each other is "no accident."
During proceedings, barrister Eamon Shanahan, representing the Wall family, requested that representatives from Ironman and Triathlon Ireland be called to give evidence. However, the coroner declined the request, stating that the purpose of the inquest was not to examine every aspect of how the event was organised.
After the verdict was delivered, Martin Wall criticised what he described as a lack of accountability from Cork County Council and Ironman and Triathlon Ireland.
"We are especially distressed that representatives of these organisations were not compelled to attend the inquest to give evidence, denying our legal team the opportunity to seek the answers our family deserved," he said.
"For us, this process was not only about understanding how Brendan lost his life, but also about ensuring lessons were learned to help prevent another family from experiencing this heartbreak. Sadly, we feel that opportunity has been missed."
The family also expressed frustration that no significant recommendations relating to athlete safety, event oversight or risk management emerged from the inquest. Martin Wall said the findings had failed to provide closure and left many important questions unanswered.
