A runner competing in the 253-mile Cocodona 250 ultramarathon through Arizona died after experiencing a medical emergency on the high-altitude course, organizers confirmed on Tuesday.
Incident Details
The race, which began on Monday in Black Canyon City and was scheduled to conclude on Saturday in Flagstaff, was interrupted by what officials described as a “serious medical emergency.” The identity of the deceased runner has not been released.
In a statement posted on social media, race organizers Aravaipa Running expressed their sorrow. “We are deeply saddened to share that a participant experienced a serious medical emergency today during the event and has passed away,” the statement read. “The runner’s family and crew have been notified.”
Organizers' Response
The organization declined to provide further specifics regarding the nature of the emergency or the individual involved. “Out of respect for the runner’s family and loved ones, we are not sharing additional personal details at this time,” the organizers said. “Our team is supporting those directly involved and will share more only when appropriate.”
Following the death, officials announced that the competition would proceed. “The race is going to continue in their honor,” the statement continued. “We ask all participants and crew to carry the memory of this runner with you on the trail. Please keep the runner's family, friends, fellow runners, volunteers, and first responders in your thoughts. We are deeply grateful to this beautiful community.”
Race Background
The Cocodona 250 is renowned for its extreme difficulty, featuring approximately 38,791 feet of elevation gain. The route starts in the high desert at an elevation of 1,996 feet and ascends to a peak of 9,241 feet on Mount Elden. Since its debut in 2021, the race has experienced a steady increase in popularity, with 395 participants registered for the full 250-mile distance this year.
On Wednesday, Rachel Entrekin became the first woman to win the Cocodona 250 outright, finishing the course in 56 hours and nine minutes, beating the previous overall course record by more than two hours.
Safety Concerns
The death comes amid broader concerns about safety in ultramarathon running. As reported by CBS News, a Michigan runner died in 2025 during a 102-mile race in Colorado. In 2021, 21 competitors died during an event in China due to extreme weather. The Cocodona course passes through several Arizona landmarks, including Crown King, Prescott, Jerome and Sedona, before finishing in downtown Flagstaff.
