The athletics community is mourning the death of Yebrgual Melese, who has died at the age of 36 after reportedly falling ill during training in Addis Ababa.
Melese had been preparing for the Ottawa Marathon later this month when she suffered a medical emergency. Reports say she was rushed to hospital but could not be saved.
The Ethiopian Athletics Federation expressed “deep sorrow” following her passing and extended condolences to her family, friends and supporters.
Melese was one of Ethiopia’s accomplished long-distance runners, with victories at the Houston, Shanghai and Prague marathons during her career.
She had been regarded as one of the leading contenders for the Ottawa Marathon scheduled for May 24.
–ChannelAfrica–
