A CO Down man who collapsed and died after an endurance race in Saudi Arabia has been described as a "sporting legend".
Friends of Paul McParland from Rostrevor have been paying tribute to the father-of-two following his sudden death in Riyadh.
Mr McParland had been competing in a double duathlon - an event which includes running and cycling - when he collapsed in the Saudi Arabian capital on August 28.
He was taken to hospital but died soon after.
Mr McParland had worked in the construction industry in Saudi Arabia but returned home frequently to his family in Rostrevor, where his funeral will take place today.
He was the longest standing member of Riyadh Triathlon Club in Saudi Arabia and the club have described his death as a "huge loss".
Tributes have described him as as a "multiple ironman legend" and someone who "lived an adventurous life to the full".
The club have organised a triathlon event in his honour next month and have also retired the number 69 jersey worn by Mr McParland.
In a statement following his death, the club said: "Paul sadly collapsed after the double duathlon race and despite efforts to save him, he died later in hospital.
"He was a past club chairman, a multiple ironman legend, a husband and a father. Always being the toughest of competitors, but offering help and encouragement to those that needed it.
"Known for his sharp humour and plain speaking, he will be a huge loss to the club and all those that knew him.
"We would like to thank all those who helped attempt to save Paul at the race, as well as the many others who helped or offered to help during this sad and difficult time."
Originally from Belleeks in Co Armagh, Mr McParland joined the RAF as a young man where he gained skills in martial arts as well as becoming a boxing champion.
After leaving the air force, he later became an engineer based in Saudi Arabia.
Another sporting club, the Riyadh Wheelers, said Mr McParland was a "prolific sportsman for over 30 years in both Riyadh and Khobar and one of his proudest moments was winning the Riyadh Marathon".
In a tribute online, friends Stuart and Emma Gillespie wrote: "Paul was an inspiration to so many here in Saudi Arabia.
"He is a sporting legend within our clubs in Riyadh and will be missed by all."
Another tribute said: "McP (sic) will be remembered for his many idiosyncrasies which brought a laugh and a smile to the many who knew him. He will be sadly missed."
Friend Danny Cunningham wrote: "Paul was a lovely, decent human being who only saw the best in others, always full of optimism, good nature and enthusiasm, no matter what the circumstances he lived an adventurous life to the full."
The 'Paul McParland 2015 Olympic distance triathlon' is due to take place on October 2 in honour of the avid sportsman.
Mr McParland is survived by his wife Mary and children Helen and Paul.
His funeral will be held at St Mary's Star of the Sea Church, Rostrevor at 11am followed by burial in Kilbroney Cemetery.
