Spencer Korwin, a 38-year-old former Team USA triathlete and father of two, has died. The father of two drowned during a morning swim on vacation with his family.
Spencer Korwin was staying with his wife and their two daughters at the Pridwin Hotel on Shelter Island, New York. On September 2, at around 9 am, her left the hotel and headed to the water.
However, as he didn’t return, his family became increasingly worried and felt something was wrong. A major search operation was launched, involving marine and air units, to search the surrounding waters for Spencer. Hours later, rescuers made the heartbreaking discovery.
Eventually, Korwin’s body was found underwater near the dock from which he had entered the water. Authorities believe the drowning was accidental, the Suffolk Times reported.
Officials have previously warned that open water can be unpredictable, especially because tides and currents can pose hidden dangers even when the weather appears calm.
Former Team USA triathlete Spencer Korwin drowns on family holiday
Spencer Korwin represented Team USA at the 2012 Triathlon World Championships in New Zealand. He went on to build a career through his wellness business, focusing on helping others.
However, above everything else, Korwin was a husband and a father. He leaves behind his wife, Carly, and their two daughters, Sadie, 4, and Colette, 1.
A GoFundMe has been created to support Spencer’s family and his children. As of Monday, it has raised more than $350,000.
“It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we mourn the sudden loss of Spencer Korwin. Spencer was a beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend. He was the sun around which so many of our lives orbited, and his loss is being felt deeply by everyone who knew and loved him,” the GoFundMe reads.
“So many of you have asked how you can be there for Sadie, 4, and Colette, 1. In that spirit, we’ve set up a fund for their future education, as one way to keep Spencer’s community close to them as they grow. We hope it can serve as a reminder, when they’re old enough to understand it, of how loved their father was and how many people are in their corner,” it continued.
Officials believe Korwin died from an accidental drowning. However, the Suffolk County Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to announce the official cause of death.
Rest in peace.
Korwin’s death left his family, friends, and the wider athletic community grieving a man remembered for both his sporting achievements and his devotion to those closest to him. The fundraising response showed how many people wanted to stand beside Carly, Sadie, and Colette after the sudden loss. His record as an international competitor was one part of his life, while his later wellness work reflected his continued interest in encouraging others. The search on Shelter Island also underscored how quickly an ordinary swim can become dangerous in open water. Even calm-looking conditions can conceal changing currents and tides, which is why officials repeatedly urge swimmers to take extra care and avoid underestimating unfamiliar water.
