A French runner died after collapsing just before the finish line of the Gold Coast Marathon in Australia last weekend, according to news reports.
Florian Gallay, 34, reportedly suffered a fatal heart attack just 100 meters before the finish line, and died later at the Gold Coast University Hospital, according to the Australian news channel, 7News.
Events Management Queensland (EMQ) released a statement that said the group had been in touch with Gallay’s brother.
“The Gold Coast Marathon team members and first responders who dealt directly with Mr. Gallay and his partner on course are being supported following the tragedy,” EMQ said.
EMQ said it would work with Gallay’s family to honor the runner.
Gallay was not the only runner who was taken to the hospital after collapsing during the race. Camryn Lloyd from Elanora, Queensland, suffered cardiac arrest and was placed in intensive care, according to 7News.
Lloyd was running to raise money for West Bali Orphanage. To date, his GoFundMe has raised over $2,000 (USD).
He remains in critical condition, according to reports.
The Gold Coast Marathon is held during Australia’s winter. Temperatures ranged from 57 degrees to 68 degrees on race day.
Heather is the former food and nutrition editor for Runner’s World, the author of The Runner’s World Vegetarian Cookbook, and a nine-time marathoner with a best of 3:23. She’s also proud of her 19:40 5K and 5:33 mile. Heather is an RRCA certified run coach.
