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High school runner dies after collapsing at competition

Published 11:40 pm Monday, May 23, 2016

Athletes, coaches and volunteers anxiously watch paramedics attend to Monroe freshman Joseph Balko during the Region VI Track and Field Championships at West Valley on Friday. Balko collapsed upon finishing the Class 3A 3,200-meter run Friday and passed away Saturday at Providence Hospital in Anchorage.
Athletes, coaches and volunteers anxiously watch paramedics attend to Monroe freshman Joseph Balko during the Region VI Track and Field Championships at West Valley on Friday. Balko collapsed upon finishing the Class 3A 3,200-meter run Friday and passed away Saturday at Providence Hospital in Anchorage.

FAIRBANKS — A high school freshman has died after collapsing at his region’s track and field championships.

The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported Monroe Catholic High School freshman Joseph Balko had just finished his 3,200-meter run Friday when he appeared to lose consciousness.

He died Saturday.

Details of what caused his death were not available.

Emergency responders arrived at the track and took over CPR. Paramedics also gave Balko a breathing treatment and used a defibrillator.

Balko was taken to the hospital and officials suspended the meet until Saturday morning.

Students observed a moment of silence after Balko’s death was announced.

Monroe’s high school track and field coach Chad Comeau said he’s heard of kids falling down at the finish line, but that it hits home when it’s one of your own.

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