Olympian Jenny Simpson collapses during race, rushed to hospital

Field Level Media|published: 06/17/2026, 4:33pm EDT

Nov 3, 2024; New York City, New York, US; Jenny Simpson (USA) is shown during the last few strides of her professional running career. Simpson decided before the race that she would retire after the New York City Marathon.. Mandatory Credit: Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com

Jenny Simpson, an Olympic bronze medalist and world champion 1500-meters runner, collapsed after suffering a medical episode on Tuesday during an event in Raleigh, N.C.

Per Let's Run, a track and field website, Simpson did not have a pulse before CPR was administered. She was then transported to a local hospital.

Simpson, 39, was taking part at a Pop Up Miles event hosted by "Sir Walter Running" that provided runners a chance to meet her.

"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," the "Sir Walter Running" team wrote Wednesday on social media..

"Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time."

Simpson won the Olympic bronze medal in 2016 in the Rio de Janeiro Games.

She retired from the sport in 2024 after competing in the New York City Marathon.

--Field Level Media