NYC Marathon runner Rachel Apa sent heartbreaking final text before dying on race day

The New York City marathon runner who died after collapsing just two miles from the finish line sent a string of heartbreaking texts to her dad during Sunday’s race.

Rachel Apa, who reportedly died from the muscle breakdown condition rhabdomyolysis, was said to be in “perfect health” as she embarked on what was her first marathon Sunday before seemingly complaining of pain.

“Ow,” the 24-year-old runner messaged her dad, Steve Apa, when she made it to the 18th mile point of the marathon – roughly two-thirds into the 26.2-mile race, the New York Times first reported.

24-year-old Rachel Apa collapsed while running the New York City Marathon Sunday. Michelle Apa

“Ow, Ow,” Apa messaged after completing another mile.

Steve Apa, who was tracking her progress using the marathon’s app from his Pennsylvania home, tried to encourage his daughter – messaging “Final stretch” when she was 23 miles in.

Apa was said to be in “perfect health” before the race.

Apa never replied to the message – before collapsing in Central Park at the 24 mile point.

 She was pronounced dead late Sunday – with her dad telling the outlet she died from rhabdomyolysis, a medical condition which sees the muscles break down rapidly.

Runners gather at Fort Wadsworth on Staten Island for the start of the 50th TCS New York City Marathon on Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, in New York. Luiz C. Ribeiro for NY Post

Proteins such as myoglobin are released, which can overwhelm the kidneys leading to organ failure, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

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