Ethiopian long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese tragically passed away at the age of 36 after collapsing during a training session. According to reports from BBC and other international media, Melese suddenly showed unusual symptoms while training in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, on May 12.
Despite being rushed to a hospital, she could not be saved. The exact cause of death has not been disclosed.
The Ethiopian Athletics Federation released a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss of a heroic athlete. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and fans,” the statement read.
Melese was in preparation for the Ottawa Marathon, scheduled for May 24 in Canada.
Throughout her career, she consistently demonstrated elite competitiveness on the international women’s marathon scene. She won the Houston Marathon, Prague Marathon, and Shanghai Marathon. In 2015, she gained worldwide recognition by finishing as runner-up at the Chicago Marathon, in a year when she also claimed victories in Houston and Prague.
Her last official race was the Beijing Marathon in May of the previous year, which she did not finish.
