IRONMAN Athlete Reunites with Heroes Who Saved His Life at Finish Line

CHATTANOOGA, TN (WDEF)— An IRONMAN athlete who nearly lost his life during the final stretch of the Chattanooga race is alive today—thanks to a team of fast-acting heroes.

Jeff Cook was just steps from completing the grueling triathlon when he collapsed near the finish line. What happened next, he says, was a blur—but it saved his life.

“I tried to get up and failed,” Cook recalled. “Then I completely collapsed and blacked out. It was not good. It was very traumatic for them—and for my family watching. But EMS workers were on me quickly, they started CPR, and used an AED on me.”

Three Tennessee Aquarium staffers trained in emergency response jumped into action.

Just a few minutes later, he called over the radio saying someone had collapsed at the finish line. We ran back, found Jeff in cardiac arrest—no pulse, not breathing. Kyle grabbed the nearest AED and brought it back, and we brought him back to health.”

The Tennessee Aquarium, a recognized first responder agency under Hamilton County EMS, hosted a ceremony Tuesday to honor those involved. For Cook, it was his first chance to meet the responders who helped bring him back.

Now in good health, Cook says he and his family are deeply grateful.