Runner who completed London Marathon in under three hours dies after race

A runner who managed to complete the 2023 London Marathon in under three hours has died whilst travelling home after the event.

Stephen Shanks, who was 45 years old took part in the 26.2 mile race around London on Sunday and managed to reach the finish line after two hours and 53 minutes.

However, just days after the conclusion of the event, London Marathon’s organisers have released a statement confirming Shanks’ death.

It read: “Everyone at London Marathon Events was deeply saddened to hear about the sudden death of Steve Shanks as he travelled 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.

“All involved in the organisation of the London Marathon would like to express sincere condolences to Steve's wife Jess, his family and friends.”

The statement continued: “A fundraising page for the Multiple Sclerosis Society has been set up in Steve's memory.

“The cause of death will be established later through medical examination. The family has asked for privacy and no further details will be released in accordance with their wishes.”

Shanks’ wife, Jess, expressed her sadness on Facebook, she wrote: “His passing was sudden & out of the blue yesterday... He was returning home having spent the day participating in the London Marathon.

“As you can imagine I’m absolutely in shock & devastated. I will let you know about the funeral arrangements when they are finalised.”

On the GoFundMe page set up in memory of Shanks, he was described as a ‘keen runner’ who was ‘never happier than running anything, from his local Parkrun to the Bob Graham Round’.