US Olympic marathon hopeful dies

NEW YORK (AFP) — One of the United States' chief hopes at the Beijing Games, Ryan Shay, collapsed and died during Olympic marathon trials held here on Saturday.

The 2003 US marathon champion fell to the ground shortly before the five mile mark but attempts to revive the 28-year-old failed and he was pronounced dead on arrival at Lenox Hill Hospital.

A statement from the USA Track and Field said: "We all are devastated over Ryan's death. He was a tremendous champion who was here today to pursue his dreams."

A five-time national road champion he was one of the favourites to make the US team for next year's Olympics in Beijing next year. ...