Quadriplegic Sid James has had to pull out of Hawaiian Ironman triathlon world championships because it is too big a risk to his health.
James and Adelaide age-group star Kevin Fergusson were confirmed only last month to start as a team in the October 14 event.
Fergusson was to tow James on a raft through the 3.8km ocean swim at Kona on the island of Hawaii and then on a special bike through the 180km cycle leg, before pushing him in a wheelchair through the 42.2km marathon run.
Instead, Fergusson will race the Ironman on his own and James will be a VIP guest at the event.
James cannot regulate his body temperature because of the quadriplegia.
The Hawaiian Ironman is notorious for extreme heat and humidity, plus the event is often marked by strong trade winds off the Pacific Ocean.
"It is with much regret that after considerable consultation with medical professionals, it has been advised that Sid James no longer compete as part of a special team at the Ironman World Championship for his own health and safety," race organisers said in a statement.
"Based on detailed and recent medical information, there is an unacceptably high risk to Sid's personal wellbeing that would arise from competing."
Fergusson is one of Australia's top age-group triathletes and has won the 55-59 category at Hawaii.
James had asked for Fergusson to take him to Kona, thinking it would be as a spectator.
But Fergusson went one step further and decided last year that they should race as a team.
No quadriplegic has finished the event.
American Dick Hoyt famously finished the race with his son Rick, who has cerebral palsy.
James became a quadriplegic after a bike accident nearly 25 years ago.
He is race director for the Victor Harbor Triathlon, south of Adelaide, and is a much-admired figure in the sport.
"Everyone is fully aware of the enormous amount of work and dedication undertaken by both Kevin Fergusson and Sid, as well as the generous support they have received.
"We appreciate the disappointment that this brings but are pleased that Sid will still be making the trip to Hawaii."
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