The mother of a ‘hard-working’ runner who died after collapsing at the finish line of a half-marathon has spoken of her heartbreak.
Kory Russell received medical treatment after he fell to the ground at the end of the Royal Parks Half Marathon in London on Sunday.
He was rushed to hospital but later passed away.
Rhi Russell, Mr Russell’s mother, told Metro: ‘Kory was the kindest, most loving and hard-working person you could ever meet.
‘He gave everything his all, whether it was work, sport, family or friendships. He had such a big heart and a personality that would light up any room.
‘Our world has been thrown into chaos and we don’t know how we’ll ever accept that he’s gone.
‘We are all heartbroken. He will be forever missed and remembered with endless love.’
A spokesperson for State Street Investment Management, the American investment firm he worked for, said: ‘Kory Russell was a highly valued and respected member of the State Street team. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his family and friends as they grieve their loss.’
Tributes have also been paid online. One person wrote on social media: ‘I am devastated. He was just the kindest, caring, lovely young man. My heart is broken.’
Another said: ‘It’s just so incomprehensible, we are heartbroken… Kory was just the nicest young man.’
A spokesperson for the Royal Parks Half Marathon said: ‘With deep sadness, we confirm the death of a participant in the 2025 Royal Parks Half Marathon.
‘Kory Russell collapsed at the finish line; he received immediate specialist medical treatment and was transferred to hospital by ambulance.
‘Everyone involved in the organisation of the Royal Parks Half Marathon would like to express sincere condolences to Kory’s family and friends.
‘The family has requested privacy, and no further details will be released in accordance with their wishes.’
The cause of death will be established later through a post-mortem, the spokesperson added.
A statement posted on the event’s website expressed ‘deep sadness’ at Mr Russell’s passing.
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