Professional golfer succumbs to lightning strike during game on New Jersey golf course
In a heartbreaking incident on Monday, 28-year-old Simon John Mariani, a dedicated and gifted golfer, lost his life after being struck by lightning at the 15th hole of Ballyowen Golf Course in Hamburg, New Jersey.
The Hardyston Police Department responded to a 911 call regarding the lightning strike incident, which occurred at approximately 1:53 p.m. The tragedy took place during an all-day Iron Man golf competition, a test of stamina and skill that golfers undertake.
Mariani was a cherished family member and friend, survived by his parents, two sisters, and many loved ones. His obituary described him as driven, dedicated, smart, and exceptionally talented.
Brian Delia, a fellow golfer, witnessed the lightning strike and captured stormy clouds on camera before running to the clubhouse for safety. The 14th hole was the location where Brian Delia captured the ominous clouds before the lightning strike.
Upon the arrival of emergency services, Mariani was taken to the hospital by medevac for further treatment. However, despite the heroic efforts of his father, who administered mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, and other golfers who provided CPR, Mariani could not be revived.
This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the danger that lightning poses, particularly on open golf courses where players often carry metal clubs, which conduct electricity. Golfers should be vigilant about the weather conditions and follow safety protocols to avoid lightning risks.
When thunderstorms are predicted, it is crucial to avoid playing. If you hear thunder or see lightning, stop playing immediately. Seek shelter in a building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle. Avoid holding metal clubs during storms, and follow course alerts if available.
In addition, it is advisable to avoid water and high ground during storms. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming play.
While endurance golf events like Iron Man golf challenges exist as tests of stamina, safety remains paramount. Being aware of weather conditions and following lightning safety protocols can prevent tragedies such as this one.
Funeral services for Mariani are scheduled for Friday. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
This incident was reported by ABC New York station WABC, and the obituary for Simon John Mariani was released on the website of the funeral home handling arrangements. Mariani was working as an associate at MTS Health Partners in New York City. It is worth noting that Brian Delia did not know Mariani before the incident.
General news outlets have reported on the tragic incident involving golfer Simon John Mariani, who passed away after being struck by lightning during an Iron Man golf competition at Ballyowen Golf Course in Hamburg, New Jersey. This heartbreaking event serves as a poignant reminder for all golfers to prioritize safety, especially during thunderstorms. It is crucial to avoid playing when thunderstorms are predicted, stop immediately if you hear thunder or see lightning, seek shelter in a building or a fully enclosed metal vehicle, and avoid holding metal clubs during storms. Funeral services for Mariani are scheduled for Friday, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues at MTS Health Partners in New York City.
