Olympic Medalist Jenny Simpson Rushed to Hospital After Collapsing at Event
Three-time Olympic runner Jenny Simpson was rushed to the hospital after collapsing on the track at a Pop Up Miles event in Raleigh, North Carolina on Tuesday, June 16.
Simpson, 39, received CPR and treatment from an automated external defibrillator at the scene, according to event organizer Sir Walter Running.
"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," Sir Walter Running wrote via Instagram on Wednesday, June 17.
"Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time," the statement continued. "We are also thankful to everyone who has reached out with concern and support. We ask that you continue to keep Jenny and her family in your prayers as we all hope for the best."
Simpson, who became the first American woman to medal in the 1500 meter event at the Olympics in 2016, retired from professional running in 2024. The bronze medalist was named Chief Running Officer for running apparel company Fleet Feet in 2025.
The retailer also released a statement, updating fans on Simpson's condition and adding that company CEO Joey Painter stayed with Simpson at the hospital as her family traveled to be by her side.
"While Jenny remains under medical care, she has shown encouraging improvement and continues to exhibit the strength and resilience that have long defined her," the statement read. "True to form, she has already asked about her mile time and whether she won."
Simpson is a World Championship runner who began setting records in college at the University of Colorado. As a member of the Buffaloes, she became the only woman to break four minutes in the 1500 meters during an NCAA season - a record that still stands today.
A 2022 Pac-12 Hall of Honor selectee, Simpson also won the 1500 meters at the 2011 World Athletics Championships and took home the silver at the 2013 and 2017 championships.
As news of Simpson's hospitalization began to spread, well-wishers took to Instagram to share their support.
"Praying so hard for you Jenny," one user wrote under her pinned post. "I ran at Mandarin High School along side you at Oviedo. Now my daughter is about to start at Oviedo, and it's a full circle seeing your photos at the Oviedo Rec Center. You were nothing but phenomenal and selfless. Please pull through."
Another fan wrote under Fleet Feet's statement, "So thankful @trackjenny is in great care with so many people praying and sending love. We are here for you Jenny!"
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This story was originally published June 18, 2026 at 8:12 AM.