Ryan Shay (left) and Ryan Hall at the start of the Men's Olympic Marathon Trials, Nov 3, 2007
Ryan Shay, one of the top distance runners in the U.S., collapsed while running in the Men's Olympic Trials in New York City Saturday. Although he received medical attention almost immediately, he was pronounced dead less than an hour later. He was 28 years old.
Shay was a nine-time All-American at Notre Dame, and a four-time state H.S. cross-country champion in Michigan, and a five-time national champion in distances from 5000, to the marathon. In 2003, he won the U.S. Marathon Championship, but injuries interfered with his attempt to make the 2004 Olympic team.
He had been training well in the past five months, and was considered a strong threat to make the 2008 team.
Story in the New York Times
"To-day, the road all runners come,
Shoulder-high we bring you home,
And set you at your threshold down,
Townsman of a stiller town."
- A. E. Housman
2 comments:
Truly incredible...it defies explanation or understanding and reminds us to savor what we have. Nothing is guaranteed. Thanks for the thoughs
RIP Ryan Shay. Thoughts and prayers for his family and friends. May they find peace in this difficult time.
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