Ethiopian long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese has passed away at the age of 36 after falling ill during a routine training session on Tuesday, as confirmed by the country’s athletics federation.
Melese, who claimed marathon victories in Houston, Prague, and Shanghai, was preparing for a race scheduled in Ottawa on May 24. According to local media reports, she suffered a sudden medical emergency while training in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. Despite being rushed to the hospital and receiving medical care, she could not be saved. No further details have been disclosed.
“The Ethiopian Athletics Federation expresses its deep sorrow over the sudden passing of this heroic athlete and offers its condolences to her family, friends, and fans,” the governing body stated.
Melese’s last competitive appearance was at a marathon in Beijing in May of the previous year, which she did not finish. Her best finish in the World Marathon Majors came in 2015, the same year she triumphed in Houston and Prague, when she placed second at the Chicago Marathon. Her legacy as a dedicated and accomplished athlete will be remembered by the global running community.