Aussie track and field star dies suddenly at 21
· Toronto Sun
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A promising track and field star has suddenly died at age 21.
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The death of Australian runner Natasha Ward, who competed in the 2024 Australian championships, was announced by NSW Athletics and the Sutherland District Athletics Club in a joint statement last Thursday. Her cause of death hasn’t been publicly disclosed.
“Natasha was a celebrated middle-distance runner. As a junior, she medalled at NSW All Schools over 1500m. She carried that success into her senior career, medalling at UniSport Nationals over 1500m in 2023, and this April, claiming UniSport National bronze in the 800m,” they said.
“Beyond her achievements on the track, Natasha was a greatly loved member of our community. Her kindness and joy touched everyone fortunate enough to know her, and her magnetic smile and warm personality have left a permanent mark on Australian athletics. Natasha’s enthusiasm and determination inspired her training partners.”
Prolific athlete
Ward began running at school, winning medals at local championships. At university, she competed at the UniSport Nationals, winning a bronze medal in April, according to the statement. She studied exercise and sports science at Macquarie University in Sydney. She competed in various events at the 2024 Australian Championships against some of the most prominent athletes in that country.
Another death
Ward’s death comes shortly after the loss of Jemma Stapleton, another Australian athlete. Stapleton, 25, was on vacation with her family in Thailand when she died in a motorcycle accident.
“I was incredibly lucky to have her as my sister,” her brother, Joel, told Australia’s 9News . “Her smile was infectious and could brighten even the darkest day.”