By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Mattia Debertolis, a 29-year-old Italian orienteering competitor, passed away after collapsing during a race at the World Games in Chengdu, China.
Officials from the World Games and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) announced that Debertolis lost consciousness on August 8 while running in the men’s middle-distance event. Despite receiving prompt medical treatment at a major hospital, he died four days later. The cause of death has not been revealed.
Orienteering challenges athletes to navigate unfamiliar terrain with a map and compass, hitting specific checkpoints in the shortest possible time. The race took place about 50 kilometres from Chengdu amid hot and humid weather, with temperatures rising above 30°C.
Debertolis was marked as “Did Not Finish” in the official results, along with 11 other athletes. The winner of the event, Riccardo Rancan from Switzerland, completed the course in 45 minutes and 22 seconds.
Since 2014, Debertolis had competed internationally and was ranked 137th in the men’s world standings. He represented Italy in various World Cups and World Championships.
The 12th edition of the World Games, featuring sports not included in the Olympics, is scheduled to run until August 17.
The organisers and IOF extended their sympathies to Debertolis’ family and promised ongoing support to the orienteering community worldwide.
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