A London Marathon runner died on his way home after completing the race on Sunday, according to reports.
Steve Shanks, who was 45 years old, completed the marathon in just two hours and 53 minutes.
However, Shanks tragically died while returning home after celebrating his achievement.
London Marathon organizers announced runner Shank’s death in a statement:
“Everyone at London Marathon Events was deeply saddened to hear about the sudden death of Steve Shanks as he traveled home on Sunday, April 23, after taking part in the London Marathon.”
“Steve, who was 45 and lived in Bingham, Nottingham, was a very experienced runner who had completed many marathons and finished on Sunday in 2:53:26.”
“The cause of death will be established later through medical examination.”
Organizers included a link to a Twitter fundraising page for the Multiple Sclerosis Society.
The page stated that Shanks had friends with MS, the Daily Mail reported.
Loved ones of Mr. Shanks wrote on the page: “Steve was a keen runner never happier than running anything, from his local Parkrun to the Bob Graham Round. “
“But he was more than just a runner; he was a musician, a knitter, and a renowned quizzer possessed of extensive knowledge of terrible pop music.”
“He was a loving husband and soulmate of his wife Jess, treasured son and son-in-law, and a much-loved friend.”
‘We will be greatly missed and always in our hearts and memories.
His wife, Jessica Shanks, expressed devastation in a post on Facebook: “It’s with great sadness that I wish to announce the loss of my wonderful husband, Stephen Shanks.”
“His passing was sudden and out of the blue. He was returning home having spent the day participating in the London Marathon.”
“As you can imagine, I’m absolutely in shock and devastated.”
Meanwhile, fellow runners shared their shock at the loss in tributes;
Radio DJ Adele Roberts said: “So sorry to hear this very sad news. Thinking of Steve and all his family and friends.”
READ: Tennis Champ, 43, Collapses and Dies on Court in Front of Horrified Onlookers
