HeadlinesBriefing favicon HeadlinesBriefing.com

Olympic Medalist Jenny Simpson Discharged After Cardiac Arrest at Running Event

BBC Sport •
×

Olympic bronze medalist Jenny Simpson left the hospital on Monday after suffering cardiac arrest during a Sir Walter Miler pop-up event in Raleigh, North Carolina. The 39-year-old collapsed while pacing a mile group and required immediate lifesaving intervention, including CPR and an automated external defibrillator.

Simpson was first transported to UNC Rex Hospital before being transferred to Duke University Hospital, where medical teams provided care for nine days. Fleet Feet, her employer, confirmed she will continue recovery in North Carolina with her husband. The company statement emphasized the skill and compassion of first responders and medical staff.

A former 1500m world champion in 2011, Simpson retired from competitive running after the 2024 season. She had recently taken on the role of Fleet Feet's first chief running officer, transitioning from elite athletics to a leadership position in the running community.

Simpson expressed deep gratitude for the support from friends, colleagues, and runners worldwide. Her message of thanks highlighted the overwhelming kindness received during her recovery, though she has not yet specified when she might return to her duties.