Ethiopian marathon runner Yebrgual Melese dies aged 36 after sudden illness

Ethiopian long-distance runner Yebrgual Melese has died at the age of 36 following a sudden medical emergency during a routine training session in Addis Ababa on Tuesday.

The national athletics federation confirmed the tragic news regarding the former Houston and Prague marathon champion.

She had been actively preparing for an upcoming road race in Ottawa scheduled for late May before falling unexpectedly ill.

Local media reports indicate that the experienced athlete was immediately rushed to a hospital in the Ethiopian capital.

Medical efforts in vain

Despite the swift response and best efforts of medical staff at the facility, she passed away shortly after her arrival.

Authorities have not yet made any further clinical details public regarding the exact cause of the fatal incident.

“The Ethiopian Athletics Federation expresses its deep sorrow over the sudden passing of this heroic athlete and offers condolences to her family, friends and fans.”

The governing body released the official statement to mourn the profound loss to the global sporting community.

A decorated international career

The 36-year-old enjoyed a highly successful career on the international road racing circuit.

Her standout competitive year came in 2015 when she secured prestigious victories at both the Houston and Prague marathons.

That same phenomenal season culminated in a second-place finish at the Chicago Marathon, marking her best ever result in one of the seven World Marathon Majors.

The East African talent also won the Shanghai marathon, while her most recent professional outing occurred at the Beijing marathon in May last year.