Half-marathoner dies after Oceanfront race

VIRGINIA BEACH

For the second year in a row, a competitor has died in a half-marathon race at the Oceanfront.

The 27-year-old man who died Sunday in the Dodge Rock 'n' Roll Virginia Beach Half Marathon was from Virginia, but not from Hampton Roads, said Master Police Officer Adam Bernstein, a department spokesman. His name wasn't released.

He completed the 13.1-mile race, Bernstein said, then reported to an on-site medical tent. He was taken to a hospital and died there.

The man had no known health problems, Bernstein said.

In a statement, Tracy Sundlun, event organizer, confirmed the death.

"We are greatly saddened by this terrible tragedy," the statement said. "Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the runner's family and loved ones, and we ask everyone to keep them in your thoughts and prayers."

A year ago, 23-year-old Erik Wellumson of Chesapeake collapsed and later died while running the half-marathon race. Wellumson collapsed on the Boardwalk near 8th Street about 8:50 a.m., a paramedic on hand for the event tried to resuscitate him, then he was taken to a hospital and died.

In 2005, a runner in his 50s collapsed near the end of the race course at 27th Street and the Boardwalk. Four doctors who were running in the event stopped to help. Paramedics took him to Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, where he died.

Matthew Bowers, (757) 222-5221, matthew.bowers@pilotonline.com

Lauren King, (757) 446-2309,lauren.king@pilotonline.com