Jenny Simpson was taken to a hospital in Raleigh, North Carolina on Tuesday after collapsing with a “medical incident” at a Sir Walter Pop Up track event while participating as a pacer.
Medical staff at the event immediately rushed to treat Simpson according to event officials and she was later taken to a hospital.
“We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who responded immediately, as well as EMS and the medical professionals who handled the situation with such care, urgency, and professionalism,” a statement from Sir Walter event organizers read. “Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time.”
“We are also thankful to everyone who has reached out with concern and support. We ask that you continue to keep Jenny and her family in your prayers as we all hope for the very best.”
Simpson, 39, was pacing a group on the track when the collapsed and reportedly lost consciousness but was revived and transported from the event. For a short period, Simpson did not have a pulse but was resuscitated with the use of an AED device and she was also administered CPR on site.
A promotional flyer for Tuesday’s event said there would be six races along with an opportunity to meet Simpson as part of several qualifying rounds in the meet series.
At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Simpson won the bronze in the women’s 1,500m, gold in the event at the 2011 world championships along with silver in 2013 and 2017.
She retired from competitive racing after running the 2024 New York City Marathon, finishing 18th place overall in the women’s elite division. In February she joined specialty run retailer Fleet Feet as its first chief running officer to connect with local communities in the sport, help design training programs and steer brand partnerships.
