GCSU Runner Dies in Charity Race

Nineteen-year-old Georgia College & State University sophomore harrier John Bruner (Dalton, Ga.) collapsed and died while running a charity race this morning (Aug. 4).

He was near the end of the 4.7 mile Missionary Ridge Road Race, an American Red Cross fundraiser. The run began at 8 a.m. in 80-degree weather. The full story is available on TheChattanoogan.com.

“This is obviously a sudden loss,” said GCSU director of athletics Stan Aldridge. “John was a valued member of the athletic department, and our condolences go to the Bruner family in this tough time. It’s a terrible tragedy.”

Bruner was a regular starter for the Bobcats as a freshman, taking 20th at the Peach Belt Conference (PBC) Meet and also racing at the NCAA Division II South Regional.

“He was just an outstanding kid,” said GCSU cross country coach Joe Samprone. “Good student, good runner, good person. There was nothing but positives to say about John.”