Olympic Sprinter Beth Dobbin Battles ME, Speaks Out Despite Health Risks — image accompanying Athletics Weekly's report. Image accompanying Athletics Weekly’s report; reduced and presented for news commentary with the attributed report. View the complete source report.
Beth Dobbin, a former Olympic sprinter, spends over 22 hours a day in bed battling myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The condition has left her with severe fatigue and other debilitating symptoms. Dobbin, who represented Great Britain at the Tokyo Olympics, hopes her story raises awareness about ME.
Dobbin's illness began after Covid and glandular fever infections in 2021-22. Despite qualifying for major championships, her health deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of ME. The condition has taken away her independence and ability to work and exercise. Read more racing coverage.
Dobbin's family has also been affected, with her sister Faye running the Yorkshire Marathon to raise funds for ME Research UK. Dobbin believes athletes have a responsibility to speak out about conditions like ME, hoping to bring more attention and research funding. Related: Olympic Sprinter Beth Dobbin Battles ME, Spends 22 Hours a Day in Bed.
This original Runner World brief is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. Visit the source for its complete reporting, context and any later corrections.
Reader questions
Questions about this report
What should runners know about Olympic Sprinter Beth Dobbin Battles ME, Speaks Out Despite Health Risks?
Former Olympic sprinter Beth Dobbin discusses her struggle with myalgic encephalomyelitis and its impact on her life. Beth Dobbin, a former Olympic sprinter, spends over 22 hours a day in bed battling myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME). The condition has left her with severe fatigue and other debilitating symptoms. Dobbin, who represented Great Britain at the Tokyo Olympics, hopes her story raises awareness about ME.
When did Runner World publish this racing brief?
Runner World published this brief on October 16, 2026. The underlying Athletics Weekly report was dated October 16, 2026.
Where can readers find the complete original report?
This summary is based on reporting from Athletics Weekly. The attributed source link in the article leads to the publisher’s complete report.
THE WEEKLY BRIEFING
Start the week a step ahead.
A concise edit of the running stories worth knowing, sent every Monday.
