Maratón Medellín: 20-year-old runner dies after cardiac arrest

Juliana Ávila Saouda, a 20-year-old runner from Bogotá, died following a medical emergency during the 21-kilometer stage of the Maratón Medellín. The incident occurred on Sunday, September 6, 2026, when Ávila suffered cardiac complications while competing.

Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez reported that the young woman suffered three cardiac arrests and required three resuscitation attempts before being transferred to the Hospital General de Medellín, where she passed away on Monday, September 7. During the same event, another participant was treated for seizures but was later discharged.

The tragedy has gained significant public attention due to Ávila’s personal connection to high-ranking Colombian officials; she was the partner of Julián Restrepo Céspedes, the son of Vice President José Manuel Restrepo. President Abelardo de la Espriella and other national figures have issued condolences to the family.

This marks the fourth death involving a runner in the 21-kilometer category during the Maratón Medellín over the last eight years. The incident has prompted discussions regarding the necessity of mandatory medical evaluations for participants in high-endurance sporting events.