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Triathlete killed after struck by car during Ironman Boulder

A 34-year-old female triathlete from Nebraska has died after she was struck by a car during her race at Ironman Boulder yesterday.

Michelle Walters was mid-way through her bike leg when she collided with a vehicle on a major highway north of Boulder that was part of the cycling course. The accident remains under investigation, but police have said that speed and alcohol are not believed to be contributing factors. The two-lane highway was was not closed off during the race, but the course was marked with cones.

Ironman released a statement following Walters’ death.

“We are deeply saddened to confirm the death of one of our athletes at Ironman Boulder. We are working with the Colorado State Patrol to gather all of the details regarding the incident that occurred on (U.S.) 36 just north of Broadway. Our condolences go out to the athlete’s family and friends, whom we will continue to support.”

Boulder is a cycling and triathlon mecca in the United States. This marks the fourth time since May an athlete has been killed in a car collision in Boulder county.

With files from Boulder News.