American ultrarunning star Megan Kimmel of Silverton, Colo., died Monday at age 46. The trail-running community has shared condolences and support across social media after the Skyrunning Federation announced the news on Instagram. Kimmel built an astounding career marked by record-breaking performances and podium finishes globally. She was known throughout the ultrarunning community for mentoring younger athletes and fostering a sense of community wherever she went. No cause of death was reported.
A legendary career
Kimmel found her comfort zone in mountain racing and recorded numerous podium finishes throughout her career. A trail runner since 2003, her career took off in 2014 when she entered the skyrunning scene. In her rookie season, she earned a silver medal at the 2014 Skyrunning World Championships in Chamonix, France. A year later, she set the Dolomites SkyRace course record of 2:57:57, a mark that still stands.
“An extraordinary athlete and true skyrunner whose legacy will live on,” the Skyrunning Federation said.
Another career highlight was her victory at the iconic 2018 Pikes Peak Marathon in Manitou Springs, Colo. Not only did she take the win, but she also broke a 39-year-old record, running 4:15:04. Echoing her consistency on iconic terrain, Kimmel also won the 2019 Broken Arrow 52K in Squaw Valley, Calif., in 5:30:43.
A pillar of the community
Kimmel left an impact on her peers and the next generation of trail runners. Many have taken to social media to express condolences.
“There aren’t words yet to describe the enormous void she leaves behind in Colorado’s San Juan Mountains and the mountains beyond,” ultrarunner and journalist Meghan Hicks said on Instagram. “We’re really not sure what the world is going to do without you, Megan. You will continue to be so loved.”
Kimmel was known as a mentor and a friend throughout the community, both before and after she retired amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “Very sad to hear. Megan was the person who made me feel competing was a game rather than a fight,” ultrarunner Ragna Debats said on Instagram. “I have so many good memories of sharing a room, running and chatting with her. She’ll always live on in my heart.”
