Jenny Simpson Hospitalized After Cardiac Arrest at Raleigh

Three-time Olympian and world champion runner Jenny Simpson was hospitalized after suffering a cardiac arrest and collapsing at a community track event in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Tuesday evening. The 39-year-old athlete required immediate CPR and the use of an automated external defibrillator to restore her pulse before being transported for medical care.

The incident occurred at a weekly "Pop Up Miles" event hosted by Sir Walter Running, where Simpson was pacing a group of runners. Organizers confirmed a medical emergency involving Simpson, stating that bystanders and emergency medical services personnel responded immediately. In a statement issued Wednesday, the Sir Walter Running team expressed gratitude for the rapid response and said Simpson is receiving excellent medical care at a local hospital. They asked for continued thoughts and prayers for Simpson and her family.

Simpson, one of the most accomplished American middle-distance runners in history, retired from competitive running in 2024. Her career highlights include winning a bronze medal in the 1500 meters at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, becoming the first American woman to medal in that event. She also...