Tributes pour in for Sam Wealleans, 29, after tragic death during Great North Run half-marathon
HEARTBREAKING tributes have poured in for a 29-year-old man who died after collapsing during the Great North Run half-marathon.
Sam Wealleans tragically passed away in hospital after falling ill during Sunday's run.
The keen runner, from Newbiggin-by-the-Sea in Northumberland, was raising money for mental health charity, Mind, in memory of his sister, Carly, and a close family friend.
A spokesperson for the Great Run Company said “All at the Great Run Company are deeply saddened by Sam’s passing.
"We are continuing to support Sam’s close family during this incredibly difficult time, and our thoughts and sympathies are with all those who loved and knew him.
"In accordance with the wishes of Sam’s family, no further details will be released, and we ask the media to respect their request for privacy."
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The cause of Sam's death will be determined following a medical examination.
Mind's chief executive Sarah Hughes said the team was "devastated" to learn of Mr Wealleans' death.
"We will be forever grateful for Sam's contribution," she said, adding the charity was in touch with the race's organisers and was available to support the runner's friends and family.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with Sam’s loved ones at this incredibly difficult time, and we ask that their privacy is respected,"; she added.
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Sam had set up a Great North Run fundraising page with the aim of raising £350 - it has since gone on to raise £20,000.
Generous visitors to the page not only donated money but left heartfelt messages for Sam and his family.
One wrote: "What a legend ! Rest in Peace and fly high ! X"
Another said: "RIP to Sam and May the continued fight in helping mental health live on."
Meanwhile a third wrote: "Such sad news to hear - thank you for helping such an important charity.
"I hope your friends and family can take comfort in the help you have given to so many."
Another wrote: "An amazing person gone too soon. Your an inspiration and as a fellow mind runner and supporter I aim to continue your amazing work."
A note on the fundraiser said: "If the money I raise helps just one person who's going through a difficult time and prevents them from taking their own life I'll be happy!"
Donations can still be made .
The Great North Run is thought to be the world's largest half marathon.
It takes place every year in North East England in September.
Sunday's event was the biggest Great North Run yet, with 60,000 participants.
Those taking part in the Great North Run must complete the course from Newcastle-upon-Tyne to South Shields.
The run was devised by former Olympic 10,000m bronze medallist and BBC Sport commentator Brendan Foster.
The race was first held on June 28, 1981 and was originally billed as a fun run with 12,000 runners taking part.
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Kenyan long-distance runner Martin Mathathi holds the current men's course record with a time of 58.56 minutes in 2011.
In the women's event, the course record holder is held by fellow Kenyan Brigid Kosgei going round in 64.28 minutes.