Although an experienced, accomplished and extremely fit sportsman, the Kiwi tenor, who was competing to raise funds for Treating Autism, fell victim to highly underestimated yet potentially deadly enemies - dehydration and overheating. After almost completing the 10km running track in the stifling 30 degree heat, Sewell was on target for a very impressive 38 minute run, but disaster struck just 200 metres from the line.
He collapsed, unconscious, after not drinking enough water during the event and sprinting in the extreme heat. Fifteen paramedics worked frantically to resuscitate him while his eight Incognito team mates surrounded him in support. After enduring frightening seizures and being violently ill, Sewell had to be rushed to hospital in an ambulance, where medical staff worked on him for another six hours in A&E. Desperate to get his 44.5 degree temperature down, they packed him in ice and tirelessly tried to get fluids into him to ensure his temperature didn't rise any further and cause brain damage.
Fortunately all their efforts were successful and he lives to tell the tale. "It was terrifying", Sewell said. "I came to in the ambulance and didn't remember a thing or know where I was. Apparently I was screaming 'I'm going to live!' and the paramedics knew they had quite a character on their hands! Apparently I was resisting their efforts to give me oxygen, tearing the mask and tubes away from me in my distress, but thank God I had a wonderful team of people helping me who literally saved my life".
Sadly though, the dangers of this frightening and life threatening ordeal are all too common for competitors at major sporting events and Sewell is very keen for his awful and eye opening experience to serve as a stark warning to others taking part in any sports activity, especially in unusually hot and humid conditions, around the world.
"I run to work every day so I'm used to 10km distances or more, and I drank lots of water before the race. You think this kind of thing won't happen to you. But it can and in my case, it did! I would never have thought it possible until I experienced it!
Thankfully, although he will still require close monitoring over coming weeks, the charismatic New Zealander is gradually getting back to his energetic best, feeling absolutely "stoked" at having a second chance at life. And he's already throwing himself into what's ahead with renewed vigour, not least the recording of his debut solo album which is due to be released at the end of the year.
The rest of his Incognito Artists' team did complete the Triathlon, feeling proud of their sporting achievements in the swim, bike and run sections of the event and were only sorry Sewell's sprint around the course didn't end in a win for the team, instead almost costing him his life.
The team have already raised over £2000 for Treating Autism, but donations are still very welcome and gratefully received. To donate please visit www.justgiving.com/incognitoartists
