A man in his 20s has died after collapsing during the Great Bristol Run

The cause of his death is currently unknown


A 26-year-old man has died after taking part in the Great Bristol Run last weekend.

He collapsed after participating and was given CPR by medics, before being taken to hospital where he passed away shortly after.

A medical investigation will be carried out to determine the currently unknown cause of death but, abiding by the family’s wishes, no further details have been released, reports Bristol Live.

The Great Bristol Run took place on the past Sunday 19th of May, with over 20,000 participants, a higher number than ever before.

It was held for a good cause, and over £2million was raised for different charities including Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundation.

The Great Bristol Run is comprised both a half-marathon and a 10km run, and required 71 roads to be closed throughout the city. The route covered locations around Hotwells, Harbourside, Castle Park and City Centre.

The day was bright and hot, with temperatures ranging between 18 and 21 degrees. Following the incident, one X user said: “So sad but not totally surprised as it was very hot and the course had very little shade”.

Other runners reported insufficient water provisions and first aid for finishers, of which a number passed out from overheating.

According to the BBC, the Great Run Company, organisers of the event, released a statement saying: “With great sadness, The Great Run Company can confirm the death of a participant at the Great Bristol Run held on Sunday 19th May 2024. A 26-year-old male collapsed, was treated by medics, and later passed away in hospital. The next of kin have been informed.

“Everyone involved in the organisation of the Great Bristol Run would like to express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the participant. In accordance with the wishes of the family no further details will be released. The cause of death will be determined later through medical examination.

“We take the health and safety of all participants very seriously and we work hard to ensure our events are delivered safely. All event plans are rigorously assessed and signed off by the Bristol Safety Advisory Group for Events (SAGE), and align with best practice in the UK.”

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