The Australian athletics community is mourning the sudden death of rising middle-distance runner Natasha Ward, with tributes pouring in for the 21-year-old who has been remembered for her kindness, determination and “magnetic smile”.
NSW Athletics and the Sutherland District Athletics Club announced Ward’s passing in a joint tribute on Thursday.
“It is with deep sadness that we inform the NSW and Australian athletics community of the passing of beloved athlete Natasha Ward,” the tribute read.
“Natasha was a celebrated middle-distance runner. As a junior, she medalled at NSW All Schools over 1500m. She carried that success into her senior career, medalling at UniSport Nationals over 1500m in 2023, and this April, claiming UniSport National bronze in the 800m.
“Beyond her achievements on the track, Natasha was a greatly loved member of our community. Her kindness and joy touched everyone fortunate enough to know her, and her magnetic smile and warm personality have left a permanent mark on Australian athletics.
“Natasha’s enthusiasm and determination inspired her training partners.
“Our thoughts are with Natasha’s family, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. RIP Natasha.”
Ward competed primarily in the 400m, 800m and 1500m events and raced against some of Australia’s top middle-distance athletes, including Morgan Mitchell and Claudia Hollingsworth, at the 2024 Australian Athletics Championships.
News of her death prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow athletes and members of the community.
Alicia DePasquale recalled meeting Ward while shopping for running shoes only weeks ago.
“I’m still in shock. This beautiful young woman served my son and I at Nike Birkenhead only a few weeks ago. She was incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain the differences between all the track running shoes and helping us find the right pair for my son’s upcoming athletics season,” she wrote.
“I’ll never forget coming down the escalator as she was heading up for her break.
“We smiled at each other as we passed, and her warmth and kindness were unforgettable. She truly had the most beautiful presence.
“This news has come as a complete shock. There are simply no words. My heart goes out to her family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved her.”
Fellow runner Nathan Breen added: “Devastating news, thoughts and prayers are with Natasha’s family and friends.”
Another supporter commented: “That is far too young, was just starting her life, go rest with the angels.”
Ward’s death comes just weeks after Australian sprint star Jemma Stapleton, 25, was killed in a scooter crash while holidaying with her family in Thailand.
Speaking after Stapleton’s death, her younger brother Joel said the family had been left “devastated by the unimaginable loss”.
“I was so incredibly lucky to have her as my sister and to have her guiding me through life,” he told 9News.
“She had a heart of gold, always putting others before herself, and her kindness touched everyone who knew her.
“Her smile was infectious and could brighten even the darkest day.”
Image: NSW Athletics
