A runner has tragically died while competing in Cardiff's Half Marathon, organisers have confirmed. Over 30,000 people flocked to the city on Sunday as the annual event kicked off, with participants racing through Cardiff's historic streets before crossing the finish line at Cathays Park.
Organisers confirm death
In a statement, Run 4 Wales confirmed that one runner had sadly died despite medics reacting with "speed and professionalism". A spokesperson said: "We can confirm that a participant in this year's event has sadly passed away. We'd like to acknowledge the event and hospital medical teams who reacted with great speed and professionalism. Our deepest sympathies go out to the runner's family and friends. In respect of the family's wishes, no further details will be released."
Previous tragedies at the event
Runners and spectators on social media reported seeing at least one person receiving medical attention during the race, reports Wales Online. The news follows previous tragedies at the event, most recently in 2024 when father Stephen Jenkins, 37, died after collapsing at the finish line. Mr Jenkins suffered a cardiac arrest and despite the best efforts of medical and emergency teams, he died at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff.
In 2019, runner Nicholas Beckley, 35, died after collapsing at the finish. A year earlier, Ben McDonald, 25 from Cardiff, and Dean Fletcher, 32 from Exeter, died after taking part in the race. Last year's event saw a woman collapse and suffer a cardiac arrest on Ninian Park Road.
