A fundraising page has been set up in memory of a Feltham runner who died after collapsing metres from the finishing line of the Weybridge Sports 10k Run on Sunday (March 5).
Czeslaw Dudek, 37, collapsed in front of fellow competitors at around 10.30am near the Weybridge Health Club in Walton Lane, Get Surrey reports .
It is understood Mr Dudek, a carpenter from Feltham, was being cheered on by his wife Sylwia and their young daughter when ambulances rushed to his aid.
South East Coast paramedics attended the scene and carried out CPR on father-of-one Mr Dudek but he sadly later died in hospital.
The 37-year-old was competing in his first ever running event at the time, it is understood.
Sunday's run was also the inaugural Weybridke 10k.
Following his death, a fundraiser was set up to raise money to support Mr Dudek's wife Sylwia and their seven-year-old daughter.
The Go Fund Me page , started by friend Ilo Bienkowska, read: "On Sunday 5th March 2017, our dear friend and colleague, Czeslaw Dudek, took part in the Asics Weybridge Sports 10k Run, his first ever timed running event.
"Unfortunately, he was never able to the finish the race as he collapsed just 400m before the finish line. He was a loving and caring dad and husband.
"His sudden death has left his wife and seven-year-old daughter in tragic situation and shatter their lives.
"No amount of money will bring Czeslaw back, but hopefully it will help his family do what ever they need to do."
Almost £4,000 has been raised so far, with people donating as much as £100 towards Ms Bienkowska's £5,000 goal.
Dozens of tributes have poured in alongside the donations too. Graeme Fergusson wrote: "So sorry to see this terrible news. Absolutely tragic. Thoughts are with the family."
Dan Searle added: "Sincere condolences from a fellow runner."
Meanwhile, Martin Todd wrote:"Very sad. We never know when it's going to be our turn."
Surrey Police has confirmed offices attended the scene at around 10.30am, adding Mr Dudek's death is not though to have been suspicious.
You can read and contribute to Mr Dudek's fundraising page here .
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