A long-distance runner representing a Texas college has tragically passed away after collapsing during a track meet in New Orleans on Friday, as confirmed by his institution.
Incident Details
Graycen Vargo, a 21-year-old junior at Texas A&M University-Texarkana, was competing in the Red River Athletic Conference Track and Field Championships hosted by Xavier University when he suffered a medical emergency and collapsed on the course. Immediate medical attention was provided on site, and he was rushed to a local hospital, where he later succumbed, according to an official statement from the university.
The specifics surrounding Vargo's medical emergency and cause of death have not been disclosed by authorities.
University and Athletic Community Mourns
Dr. Ross Alexander, president of A&M-Texarkana, expressed the collective grief in a statement: "Our thoughts are with Graycen's family, teammates, and friends as they deal with this unimaginable loss. Graycen was a respected member of the student body and a beloved member of the Cross Country and Track and Field Teams. His presence will be greatly missed by the entire university community."
Ryan Wall, the university's athletic director, added: "On behalf of the Eagle athletic department, I want to convey our heartfelt sorrow at the loss of Graycen Vargo. Our prayers are with the Vargo family and everyone who knew Graycen as they go through this difficult time."
A Promising Student-Athlete
Vargo, a computer science major from Dallas, Texas, was in his first year with the Texas A&M-Texarkana team after previously running for Jacksonville College during his freshman and sophomore years. He had recently been honored with the Eagle Excellence Award for Cross Country at the university's annual athletic awards ceremony. The accolade is reserved for student-athletes who have made a positive impact on campus, within their teams, and in the community while exemplifying strong character and academic excellence.
Coach's Tribute
Ben Nicholas, Vargo's high school coach at Village Tech in Dallas, also paid tribute on social media. "I first met Graycen as an 8th grader when I was looking for athletes to run. What I found, though, was the most fiercely competitive, determined and loyal teammate. He would challenge you and demand your best, while totally committing to winning together. I had the joy of working with him for five years, and the honor of watching him grow beyond high school and compete collegiately. Graycen became so interwoven in our lives, constantly checking in with those he cared about. Of course, we still talked about running, but as Graycen grew up he took interest in the well-being of my daughter, his teammates, and the team he desperately wanted to give back to. Graycen, you are a legend. I love you so much, I am so proud of you, and so grateful for you."
