Man, 26, dies after collapsing during Great Bristol race as organizers express ‘great sadness’

A 26-year-old man has tragically died after collapsing during the Great Bristol Run.

Organizers confirmed in a statement that “with great sadness” the runner had died.

Great Run said in a statement that the man was treated by medics and later died in hospital.

The statement said: “Everyone involved in the organization of the Great Bristol Run would like to express their sincere condolences to the family and friends of the participant.

“We take the health and safety of all participants very seriously and work hard to ensure our events are delivered safely,” the Great Run Company statement continued.

“All event plans are rigorously assessed and approved by the Bristol Safety Advisory Group for Events.”

The man’s cause of death has not yet been determined.

Organizers estimated that more than 15,000 people took part in the Great Bristol Run, making it “the biggest ever”.

The event is one of the most popular running events in the UK and has been part of the city since 1989.

The event hosted a half marathon and a 10 km (6.2 mi) run, along with a race specifically for visually impaired runners, a wheelchair event and a one-mile family race.

Both the 10km and half marathon courses started and finished on Anchor Road.

The one-mile family run, in partnership with Wallace & Gromit’s Grand Appeal, was designed to raise money for Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Many runners hit the pavement to raise money for worthy causes including the Women’s Royal Army Corp, Bristol Autism Support and Cancer Research UK.

According to the official event description: “Beloved by Bristolians and beyond, the AJ Bell Great Bristol Run is known as the best in the South West – and for good reason.

“Each year, thousands of runners push their endurance and passion to the limit and take on Bristol’s super-scenic 10km and half marathon routes.

“If stunning views, inspiring history and graffiti murals are your thing, then the Great Bristol Run is right up your alley.

“Starting in the heart of the city, runners will pass some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and hear incredible local support along the route, before reaching the grandstand in Millennium Square.

“But it’s not just the awe-inspiring scenery that draws runners from far and wide: the fast, flat course also makes this running event perfect for those looking for a new personal best – or just wanting to get to the finish line.”