Nayeli Clemente, 24, Dies After Collapsing in 96-Degree Endurance Run

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Nayeli Clemente, a 24-year-old athlete and physical therapist, died on May 2 after collapsing during a high-intensity endurance event in 96-degree heat in San Andrés Cholula, Mexico. The event, known as the “Team Pyramid Run,” was part of the Cholula Games, a competitive fitness challenge pushing athletes to run increasingly longer distances.Organizers confirmed her passing in a statement to the Daily Mail on May 9. “She was treated by the event’s medical team and transported alive to a private hospital, where she sadly died the following day,” the Cholula Games said. Her brother later shared that Nayeli suffered a sudden stroke, E! News reported.Clemente was more than just a competitor. She was a devoted physical therapist who loved nature and community. Her brother, Kevin Armando Hernández, described her as “a strong woman, an athlete, and a nature lover,” passionate about helping others heal.Related: Congressman’s Daughter ‘Died Suddenly’ at 23 After Feeling NauseousThough the event wasn’t sponsored by CrossFit, Clemente was a regular presence in that space and had spoken openly about the toll these extreme competitions can take. In a May 2024 Instagram post, she reflected on a prior endurance event, admitting she ignored warning signs from her body. “There were physical and emotional signs I didn’t want to see and pushed aside because I wanted to conquer the world in one day,” she wrote. “I don’t consider it the most responsible decision, but it showed me how brave, persevering, and strong I am.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nayeli Clemente (@nayeliclem)
CrossFit acknowledged her passing in a statement, saying, “Our hearts go out to Nayeli’s family and friends, and especially her CrossFit teammates and community.”Clemente’s death has sparked broader conversations around athlete safety, heat protocols, and the growing intensity of fitness competitions. Her legacy will be remembered not just for her physical strength, but for the courage she showed on and off the course.