Tragedy as runner dies after taking part in Potters Arf half marathon

A man in his 70s tragically died after completing a half-marathon at the weekend.

The runner, who took part in the Potters Arf in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, suffered a medical episode in Hanley shortly before 1.30pm on Sunday. Emergency services including paramedics from West Midlands Ambulance Service rushed to the scene and treated the man, who was taken to the Royal Stoke University Hospital.

However, he was pronounced dead a short time later, confirmed Staffordshire Police. His death after the 13.1-mile race is not being treated as suspicious, said the force. The half-marathon, held in the city, features the famous Heartbreak Hill section.

READ MORE: Derby runner dies in ‘freak accident’ days before scheduled return to action at Ayr

A spokesperson for event organiser HS Sport said: "A runner at yesterday's race fell ill after finishing the race and, despite the best efforts of medical staff, sadly passed away after being taken to the Royal Stoke University Hospital. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with their family, friends and loved-ones at this incredibly difficult time. We ask that their privacy is respected as they grieve their loss."

As reported by Stoke-on-Trent Live, a council spokesman added: "We are aware of the sad death of a participant in yesterday's Potters Arf.

"All our thoughts are with his family and loved-ones. We will offer whatever support we can.

"We would like to recognise the efforts of the event's first responders and the emergency services who responded swiftly to provide treatment."

Another runner with suspected hyperthermia was also taken to hospital by ambulance, where he is currently receiving treatment, the city council added.

Last month, a 35-year-old runner collapsed and died just moments after crossing the finish line of a five-mile race in Italy. Mattia Sella was seen leaning against a barrier, seemingly to catch his breath, shortly after 9pm on Wednesday.

Moments later, he fell unconscious.

Witnesses thought he had fainted from exhaustion or suffered a drop in blood sugar, but it quickly became clear the situation was far more serious. Mattia was found unresponsive and not breathing by on-site medics and volunteers who rushed to his aid.

They immediately began resuscitation attempts and were joined minutes later by paramedics from a nearby hospital. Despite about 40 minutes of CPR, Mattia's heart never restarted.

He is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest.