Ethiopian Runner Yebrgual Melese Dies at 36 During Training
Yebrgual Melese fell ill while preparing for the Ottawa Marathon and died in hospital. The Ethiopian long-distance runner was 36. The Ethiopian Athletics Federation expressed sorrow and offered condolences to her family.
nypost.comEthiopian long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese died at the age of 36 after falling ill during a routine training session on Wednesday. Melese had been preparing for the Ottawa Marathons scheduled for 24 May when she suffered a sudden medical emergency.
She was rushed to the hospital but died despite the efforts of the medical staff. In a statement, the Ethiopian Athletics Federation expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to her family, friends and fans.
Her best result in one of the seven World Marathon Majors came in 2015 when she finished second in the Chicago Marathon. That same year she recorded victories in two other major races. The death has drawn attention to the physical demands placed on elite distance runners who maintain high-intensity training schedules in preparation for international competitions.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- 2026-05-13
Yebrgual Melese dies at 36 after falling ill during training.
1 sourceAllAfrica - 2026-05-13
Ethiopian Athletics Federation issues statement of condolence.
1 sourceAllAfrica - 2026-05-24
Ottawa Marathons for which Melese was preparing are scheduled to take place.
1 sourceAllAfrica
Potential Impact
- 01
The running community in Ethiopia will observe a period of mourning for the deceased athlete.
- 02
The Ethiopian Athletics Federation will likely issue further statements regarding athlete health protocols.
Transparency Panel
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