Runner collapses and dies after Cardiff half marathon following two deaths in race last year

A RUNNER has collapsed and died after competing the Cardiff half marathon, following two deaths in the race last year.

Run 4 Wales said the runner was seen by a medical emergency team on the course then taken to University Hospital of Wales where they died.

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A runner has collapsed and died after completing the Cardiff half marathon[/caption]

The organisers said everyone connected with the race was “devastated” and a full review would be carried out.

A record field of 27,500 runners were taking part in the 13.1 mile course around the Welsh capital.

Chief executive Matt Newman said: “Our deepest sympathies go out to the family of the runner who tragically passed away after taking part at the event.

“The emergency services reacted to this terrible situation with great speed and professionalism.

Everyone connected with the race is devastated.”

Matt Jukes, chief constable of South Wales Police, tweeted: “Terribly sad news. My thoughts are with all those affected.”

In 2018, Ben McDonald, 25, from Cardiff, and Dean Fletcher, 32, from Exeter, died after taking part in the race.

Today’s half marathon was the 17th time the race had taken place, with 27,500 taking part.

More than half the competitors running the course were women.

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