Former 1500m world champion Jenny Simpson steps away from running after cardiac arrest
Former 1500m world champion Jenny Simpson has announced her retirement from running following a cardiac arrest in June. Simpson, a three-time Olympian, stated that returning to the sport would be dangerous for her health.
Why it matters
The retirement of a decorated athlete due to a life-threatening medical event highlights the physical risks associated with elite sports and the importance of cardiac health awareness.
Jenny Simpson won bronze at the 2016 Olympics. Jenny Simpson won bronze at the 2016 Olympics. Sport Former 1500m world champion Jenny Simpson steps away from running after cardiac arrest 39-year-old collapsed during event in June
Prefer the Guardian on Google Former 1500m world champion Jenny Simpson says she will not return to running after she collapsed during a track event in June .
Simpson, a three-time Olympian and one of the most accomplished American female runners in history, was pacing a mile group at an event in North Carolina when she went into cardiac arrest. She was given CPR before she was rushed to hospital, where she was placed on life support due to issues with her heart and lungs.
She said the condition means it would be dangerous for her to return to running. “That chapter has ended,” she said. “Thankfully, my story hasn’t.”
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