Tests to establish cause of marathon runner’s death
A 30-year-old woman collapsed and died less than a mile away from the finishing line of the London marathon. Tests are expected to take place in coming days to establish the cause.
The woman, who has not been identified, fell to the ground as she made her way along Birdcage Walk, near St James’ Park, on the final stretch of the 26.2 mile course.
She was given medical attention at the scene and was taken to hospital, but died despite efforts to save her.
Organisers of the race expressed their condolences to the family of the competitor.
A statement released by the organisers said: “It is with regret that we have learnt of the death of a competitor in the Virgin London Marathon.
“The organisers of the Virgin London Marathon would like to express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased.
“We will not be releasing any further details of this tragic incident until next of kin have been notified and formal identification has taken place. We would ask for your understanding in this matter.”
Pint of bitter
The death is the 10th to take place since the London marathon began in 1981.
Some 37,500 competitors were estimated to have taken part in yesterday’s race, including shadow chancellor Ed Balls, who completed the race in five hours 33 minutes, raising £56,000 for charities Whizzkids and Action for Stammering Children.
“As you will know I didn’t quite drop pasties from my training diet but I’ve had an abstentious week or so,” he said. “I think I might have a pint of bitter.”
In the elite races, the event was dominated by the Kenyans, with Wilson Kipsang winning the men’s race at his first attempt with a time of two hours four minutes and 44 seconds.
Compatriot Mary Keitany retained her London Marathon title with a time of two hours 18 minutes and 36 seconds, setting a new national record in the process.