Tributes have been paid to a swimmer tragically died whilst taking part in an open water race. David Grey had been taking part in a 750m race in Swansea Bay on the afternoon of Sunday, August 13. He was 72. Swansea Tri-Sharks, which organised the event, said he slowed during the race and was helped by medics on the beach before he died. His daughter Debbie was competing in the 1,500m race at the same event. Swansea Trisharks wrote: "It is with a heavy heart that we confirm the passing of Athlete David Grey age 72, during our event. Our deepest condolences go to David's family and friends. We would like to thank the incredible efforts of South Wales Water Safety Team, acute paramedics, rapid response, air ambulance, police, coastguard, RNLI, volunteers and members of the public." READ MORE: Man and dog rescued from sinking boat in sea off Welsh beach in race against time A Welsh Ambulance Service spokesman said: "We were called on Sunday (August 13), at approximately 4.38pm, to reports of an incident on the beach near Mumbles Road, Swansea. We sent one Cymru high acuity response unit, one emergency ambulance, one duty operational manager and one advanced paramedic practitioner to the scene where we were assisted by colleagues from the emergency medical retrieval and transfer service who travelled by air.” A spokeswoman for South Wales Police said: "South Wales Police was called just before 5.15pm on Sunday, August 13 with a report of a 72-year-old man having got into difficulties in the sea off Mumbles Road, Swansea. Officers attended along with a number of other emergency services. Despite the best efforts of members of the public and emergency services he sadly passed away." And a spokeswoman for the Mumbles RNLI said: "HM Coastguard tasked us to the scene, we launched immediately. On arrival, the gentleman was receiving care from paramedics, so our assistance was not required. We were stood down and returned to station. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family." Tributes have been pouring in online for Mr Grey, including from his close friend, Kevin Pullin said: "It is with great sadness and the heaviest of hearts that I share this news about the loss of my great friend, training partner and fellow swimming competitor Dai Grey. I will never forget our times together during which we had great swim sessions, great competition and great laughs. "His massive strength, athletic ability and commitment to swimming was and will remain an inspiration to so many people including myself. This is such a sad time for the athletic and swimming community in Swansea and Wales. However I know that Dai will want us to ‘crack on’ with our training, competition and enjoyment of swimming/sport. I and so many others will never forget Dai and his legacy will live on. Penlan Leisure Centre and the pool will never be the same without him." Many others shared their tributes, including Paul Griffiths, who wrote: "Worked with David for 38 years on railway. Larger than life character, always full of fun and even in his toughest times always had his glass half full. Going to leave a massive void in so many peoples lives. RIP Dai." Andrew Horsfall-Turner wrote: "Dai was one of the most committed swimmers I’ve seen. Up at Penlan every morning, incredible athlete and lovely man! RIP", and Hywel Davies wrote: "Only saw him a couple of weeks ago and was lovely to see Dai as I remember him whilst work colleagues, all smiles. So sorry to all the family for your loss, his love of swimming was undiminished to the end." Rachel Llewelyn-Davies wrote: "Such a lovely man and such a lovely family. Sending my love and condolences to his family and friends", and Ellie Nora added: "Very sad news I remember swimming with him in the masters a good few years ago and he was so encouraging and supportive." Pontypool Triathlon & Endurance Club wrote: "We are saddened to hear of this news and share our condolences with Davids family, friends and fellows of Swansea Trisharks.."