Rowing South Africa has shed some light on the tragic lightning strike that led to the death of a 19-year-old coach and the injury of a 14-year-old rower at Germiston Lake, on Saturday.
Both coach and rower, whose names are yet to be released, were affiliated to Somerset College in the Western Cape.
“We are waiting to engage with the athletes who were directly involved to ascertain what transpired, they are deeply traumatised at the moment.
“However, what appears to have happened is that after the regatta had closed for the day, a group of athletes together with their coach started to walk back to their hotel which was close to Germiston Lake,” explained Keith McIvor on behalf of Rowing South Africa.
“While walking a very severe storm struck the area and the group sought shelter under a tree, tragically lightning struck the tree fatally injuring the coach and injuring the athlete.”
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The entire rowing community in South Africa is in mourning for the young man.
“He was deeply committed to rowing and much loved, he will be honoured by the community in a way that pays tribute to him and aligned to his family’s wishes.
“Details will be forthcoming when they become available,” said McIvor.
When asked if Rowing South Africa has any safety tips for rowers or supporters who find themselves in similar situations he said, “Lightning is incredibly dangerous and should not be underestimated ever.
“When lightning is in the area people should seek shelter in buildings, or in cars with the windows closed or if there is no other alternative one should crouch down on the ground and have as little touching the ground as possible (your feet only) and make yourself as small as possible.
“Shelter should never be sought under a tree, in a tent or similar place.”
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