Runner Participating in 250-Mile Race Dies After Experiencing ‘Serious Medical Emergency’

Credit: Ezra Shaw/Getty

NEED TO KNOW

• A participant in an ultramarathon has died
• The runner suffered a "serious medical emergency," Cocodona 250 officials said
• The race, which stretches over 250 miles across Arizona, began on Monday, May 4

A participant in a 250-mile ultramarathon in Arizona has died, authorities said.

The runner died after suffering a medical emergency, organizers of the Cocodona 250 said on Wednesday, May 6.

“We are deeply saddened to share that a participant experienced a serious medical emergency today during the event and has passed away,” race organizers said in a statement on Instagram. “The runner’s family and crew have been notified.”

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Race officials did not identify the victim “out of respect for the runner’s family and loved ones,” and said they would “share more only when appropriate.”

The 250-plus-mile-long race stretches across the state and features stark changes in elevation.

Organizers of the Cocodona 250 addressed the death of a participant in an Instagram statement
Credit: Cocodona 250/Instagram

The race, which starts in Black Canyon City and ends in Flagstaff, began on Monday, May 4 and typically takes participants days to finish. 

Last year, the winner on the men's side, Dan Green, finished in just under 59 hours.

Organizers have decided not to cancel the race despite the death.

“The race is going to continue in their honor,” Cocodona 250 officials said in a statement. “We ask all participants and crew to carry the memory of this runner with you on the trail."

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