This is also in view of the growing number of physically-demanding sporting events (running races, triathlons and biathlons) being organised here.

For a physically-demanding sport like the triathlon, I am surprised that the organiser, the Triathlon Association of Singapore (TAS), did not deploy any medical personnel on site to handle medical emergencies.

It seems that TAS saw no need to deploy medical personnel as the coaches were trained in first aid.

Notwithstanding that, first aid-trained coaches are still not trained and qualified medical personnel equipped to handle medical emergencies like sudden cardio-respiratory failure on the part of race participants.

I would also like to suggest that event organisers look into deploying defibrillators and using these portable and easy-to-use medical devices to help participants in need.

Lee Kai Yin