- Recho Kosgei collapsed just 8oo metres to the finishing line
- For over two minutes, she struggled to stand up but no one came to her aid
Organisers of the Warsaw Marathon held on 24th September are under fire after officials failed to help Kenyan runner Recho Kosgei, after she collapsed 800 meters to the finish line.
Kosgei, who was in the lead, had a three minute lead on the next competitor before she is seen struggling and collapsing several times with no one assisting her.
Kosgei spent over two minutes struggling to stand up without any race officials, spectators or runners coming aid her.
Finally a runner in the men’s race, Slovakian Marek Hladik appeared to try and communicate with her for a few seconds and attempted to lift her off the road.
Kosgei failed to finish the race which Ethiopian Bekelu Beji winning the race in 2:35:08. Kosgei received treatment by medical personnel for dehydration and did not complete the marathon.
Following the incident, the Organisers faced criticism from social media. 2012 Boston Marathon winner Wesley Korir tweeted:
This beyond acceptable Although it's illegal for race official to help a runner I think there comes a time when logic takes over @iaaforg https://t.co/h6J0NEk7eF — Hon wesley korir (@weskorir) September 25, 2017
The organizers of Warsaw Marathon are on the spot for failing to assist Kenya's Recho Kosgei, dangerously needing help, in Sunday's event. pic.twitter.com/rSfp8EjHq4
— Saddique Shaban (@SaddiqueShaban) September 25, 2017
Whoever shot this video should have helped instead of watch in my opinion. 1st responder can be anyone — Da Vincci (@nyani0007) September 25, 2017
Hope the corrupt Kenya athletics officials such as Mr Soi is watching what we go through to earn a living while they sit in the living rooms — Hon wesley korir (@weskorir) September 26, 2017
Ah Poland.... I will not generalize. Am trying not to because this pains me to no end. — Sura Mbaya (@surambaya) September 26, 2017
Shame! It's a pity! Absurdity! Kenyan spirit in her still can't give up, though. Kudos Recheal! U live to fight another marathon.
— bonface lukunza (@bonluks) September 25, 2017
