Former Austrailian ironman Dean Mercer (a two-time winner- 89 and 95), crashed his car into a fence on the Gold Coast early Monday morning and died.
At this time, it is believed the reason for the crash was a heart attack. He was transported to the hospital after the crash and in a critical condition but later died. He was 47 years old. His family have been notified of the accident.1
Mercer has two Australian crowns. Source: AAP
Mercer grew up on the beach in Thirroul and started competing in the Nutri-Grain national ironman series in 1987 (his last was in 2010). 1
He was loved by everyone in that world and his loss has sent ripples through the community.
Ian Hanson, Surf Life Saving Australian spokesman said, “No surf was too big, no opponent too tall as he tackled the biggest and the best in the business.”1 Mercer was, “a true champion in every sense of the word” with “the heart of Phar Lap.”1
The Australian champion was married to Gold Coast ironwoman champion Reen Corbett and together they have four children. Our hearts go out to them now.
