Jack Roney, a former swimmer and assistant coach at North Carolina State University, tragically passed away on July 5 while practising underwater breathing exercises. The circumstances surrounding his death have emphasised the potential dangers associated with prolonged breath-holding, prompting calls for increased awareness and caution in swimming practices.
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Roney, aged 39, was underwater for an extended time when he experienced what is described as a “shallow water blackout.” This phenomenon, which can occur during breath-hold activities, leads to a loss of consciousness due to reduced oxygen levels in the brain. The autopsy report, obtained by various media outlets including the Charlotte Observer and News & Observer, identified accidental drowning as the cause of death.
According to Roney’s father, John, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in breath-hold training. “We want it known that holding one’s breath underwater for extended periods is dangerous,” he stated. “We’d like to prevent this from happening to someone else. Jack would too.” This sentiment underscores the family’s wish to raise awareness about similar risks faced by swimmers and individuals engaging in breath-hold activities.
The National Library of Medicine defines shallow water blackout, also known as hypoxic blackout, as a loss of consciousness resulting from cerebral hypoxia, often following hyperventilation before diving. It is a rare occurrence but can be fatal if not recognised in time.
At the time of the incident, Roney was reportedly in good health and fit condition. The autopsy indicated no signs of foul play, substance abuse, or trauma. Roney’s dedication to the sport was evident; he was noted for breaking the 200-yard breaststroke record at NC State, a record he held from 2008 to 2011 before transitioning into coaching.
On the day of his drowning, Roney’s wife, Maresa, discovered him unconscious in the pool after stepping away briefly to take a phone call. Emergency services responded swiftly, arriving at the scene at approximately 7:36 PM. Paramedics administered CPR in an effort to revive him, continuing their efforts until he was transported to a nearby hospital at 8:19 PM.
Tragically, despite these efforts, Roney was pronounced dead at 8:53 PM on the same day. Law enforcement conducted a review of the incident and found footage showing him submerged for over two minutes before he submerged again without resurfacing.
Roney’s legacy as an athlete and coach is echoed in the memories of those who knew him. He met his wife, Maresa, who also swam at NC State, during their university years. The couple welcomed five children into their family, each likely to inherit their parents’ passion for swimming and sport.
His death highlights the need for heightened awareness regarding swimming safety, particularly regarding breath-hold techniques. Experts stress the importance of supervision and education about the risks of extended underwater breath-holding, especially during training sessions.
As discussions continue around Roney’s untimely passing, it is a tragic reminder of the importance of safety in swimming. The call for increased knowledge and vigilance within the swimming community aims to ensure that no other families have to endure a similar heartbreak in the future.