American middle-distance runner Jenny Simpson remains hospitalized following a severe medical crisis during a community track event on Tuesday evening. The 39-year-old Olympic medalist collapsed unexpectedly while assisting as a pacer for a mile group at a gathering in Raleigh, NC, which was organized by Sir Walter Running, an organization that hosts public track events for athletes of varying skill levels.
Reports stated that the three-time Olympian and 2016 bronze medalist temporarily lost her pulse before responders administered CPR and used an automated external defibrillator. Event organizers later said she was receiving medical treatment and praised emergency personnel for their swift response. No additional details about the cause of the medical episode were immediately released.
In a statement posted to social media, Sir Walter Running addressed the incident and express appreciation for the quick actions taken by those on the scene: “Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time.. We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who responded immediately, as well as EMS and the medical professionals who handled the situation with such care, urgency, and professionalism … We ask that you continue to keep Jenny and her family in your prayers as we all hope for the very best.”
One of the most accomplished U.S. distance runners, Simpson captured bronze in the 1,500 meters at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, becoming the first American woman to medal in the event. She also captured a world championship gold medal in the 1,500 meters in 2011, alongside two world championship silver medals earned in 2013 and 2017, before retiring from professional competition in 2024.
Since stepping away from elite racing, Simpson has remained active in the running community and recently took on a leadership role with specialty retailer Fleet Feet.
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