Father Recalls Daughter's Texts During NYC Marathon Before Her Death — image accompanying Marathon Handbook's report. Image accompanying Marathon Handbook’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Rachel Apa collapsed near Mile 24 and died from rhabdomyolysis, Marathon Handbook reported. Her father, Steve Apa, shared texts from the race with NBC News.
Rachel sent her first message at Mile 9, saying she felt amazing. Steve urged her to pace herself, reminding her it was her first marathon. Read more culture coverage.
As the race progressed, Rachel's messages grew briefer, ending with 'Ow, ow' at Mile 20. Steve's texts continued until Mile 24, when her position stopped moving. Related: Marathon Runner Dies After Collapsing in NYC Marathon.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
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What should runners know about Father Recalls Daughter's Texts During NYC Marathon Before Her Death?
Steve Apa shares messages from Rachel during her first marathon, ending near Mile 24. Rachel Apa collapsed near Mile 24 and died from rhabdomyolysis, Marathon Handbook reported. Her father, Steve Apa, shared texts from the race with NBC News.
When did Runner World publish this culture brief?
Runner World published this brief on November 6, 2026. The underlying Marathon Handbook report was dated November 6, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Marathon Handbook. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
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