A runner competing in a 253-mile ultramarathon through Arizona died after a medical emergency occurred on the high-altitude course, organizers said Tuesday.
The Cocodona 250, which began Monday in Black Canyon City and was scheduled to conclude Saturday in Flagstaff, was interrupted by what race officials described as a “serious medical emergency.” The runner’s identity has not been released.
In a statement posted to social media, race organizers Aravaipa Running confirmed the death.
“We are deeply saddened to share that a participant experienced a serious medical emergency today during the event and has passed away,” the statement said. “The runner’s family and crew have been notified.”
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.”
The Cocodona 250 is known 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. 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.”
The race has grown steadily since it was first held in 2021. This year, 395 runners registered for the full 250-mile course.
On Wednesday, Rachel Entrekin became the first woman to win the Cocodona 250 outright, finishing the course in 56 hours and nine minutes. Entrekin beat the previous overall course record by more than two hours.
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. And, in 2021, 21 competitors died during a 2021 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.
