A 15-year-old girl has died while taking part in a half marathon.
Rosalie Hoedjes became unwell and collapsed a few kilometres before the finish line at around midday on Sunday (10 May).
The area was cordoned off while paramedics attempted resuscitation.
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However, she could not be saved and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The tragedy unfolded at the Leiden Marathon in the Netherlands, prompting the suspension of the 10km race and the Kids Run.
Participants already running the marathon and half marathon were allowed to complete their races.
Rosalie was from Oegstgeest and would have turned 16 in less than a month, as reported by Need To Know.
Bart Visser of Namens de Familie, an organisation that supports families dealing with the media after tragedies, described her as “athletic, sporty and dedicated”.
He added: “She had previously run long distances and had prepared well for running a half marathon.”
The cause of death has not yet been determined.
Although the minimum age for the half marathon was 16, Rosalie’s parents have said the organisers bear “no blame whatsoever” and have taken responsibility for her entry.
Her sister Loulou wrote online: “I love you so much. You were the best sister ever. I’m going to miss you. You are in my heart.”
Leiden Marathon said in a statement: “What should have been a beautiful day ended with the terrible news of the death of a 15-year-old girl during the half marathon. We are devastated.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and everyone who loved her. We also extend our sympathy to the runners, spectators, volunteers, and emergency responders involved.”
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