Top distance runner drops dead during Olympic trials

NEW YORK - Top distance runner Ryan Shay died during the U.S. men's Olympic marathon trials yesterday after collapsing about 5 and a half miles into the race. He was 28 years old.

Shay was taken to Lenox Hill Hospital and was pronounced dead at 8:46 A.M., New York Road Runners president Mary Wittenberg said. "It cuts a knife through everybody's hearts," said Wittenberg, whose group organized the race. She said Shay received immediate medical attention. The medical examiner's office said an autopsy would be performed tomorrow. "There were several layers of medical response. It was very quick," said Wittenberg, who would not elaborate on what steps were taken.

Shay hit the ground near the Central Park boathouse, a popular Manhattan tourist spot, during the 26.2-mile qualifier for the Beijing Games. The death came a day before the New York City Marathon. "He was a tremendous champion who was here today to pursue his dreams," said Craig Masback, chief executive of U.S. track and field's governing body. "The Olympic trials is traditionally a day of celebration, but we are heartbroken."

Shay was a favorite going into the 2004 trials but was hampered by a hamstring strain and finished 23rd. He was the 2003 U.S. marathon champion and was third at this year's U.S. 25K championships. Shay was the U.S. 20K road racing champion in 2004, making him a four-time national champion.

"It's a big loss for the running community," said 2004 women's marathon Olympic bronze medalist Deena Kastor, who once trained with Shay. "It's a day we should be celebrating. It has cast a pall. The distance running community is very close."