Olympic medallist Jenny Simpson collapses at mile event in Raleigh

Olympic medallist Jenny Simpson is in hospital after suffering a medical incident while pacing a mile group at a Sir Walter Miler pop-up event in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Tuesday. Reports indicate that the 39-year-old American collapsed and required CPR at the scene.

Simpson, who retired from competitive running at the end of the 2024 season, is a decorated middle-distance runner. She won gold in the 1500m at the 2011 World Championships, Olympic bronze in Rio 2016, and silver medals at the 2013 and 2017 World Championships. She also represented the US at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

Medical incident and response

The Sir Walter Miler team confirmed the incident in a statement on X, expressing gratitude to those who provided immediate assistance, including emergency medical services. The statement noted that Simpson is receiving excellent medical care and asked fans to keep her and her family in their thoughts.

• Simpson collapsed while pacing a mile group at a pop-up event.
• She reportedly needed CPR at the scene before being taken to hospital.
• The event organizers confirmed the incident and praised the swift response of medical personnel.
• Simpson retired from professional running at the end of the 2024 season.
• She is an Olympic bronze medallist and two-time World Championships silver medallist.

No further details about Simpson's condition have been released at this time. The athletics community has rallied in support, with many sending messages of concern and hope for her recovery.