TRIBUTES have poured in for a college tennis player who died while running a half marathon.
Toby Atwood’s death at age 21 was announced by Thiel College in a heartbreaking statement.
A GoFundMe page was set up to help the family with funeral expenses.
She was the No. 1 singles player on Thiel’s tennis team and a co-captain.
The college called her a standout in the classroom and on the court.
Toby was a business administration and accounting double major with a 4.0 GPA.
She received numerous awards, including for excellence in athletics, academics and leadership.
Vice president for student life and athletics Michael McKinney said, “Her presence touched the lives of so many, and she will be deeply missed.
“During this heartbreaking time, we mourn for Toby and extend our heartfelt sympathy to her family, friends, classmates, teammates, coach, instructors, and all who knew her.”
Atwood collapsed while running the Presque Isle Half Marathon in Erie, Pennsylvania last Sunday.
She posted on Instagram in May celebrating running her first half marathon.
And fans congratulated her by saying she “ran right through” the finish line.
Atwood was also a member of the college’s Zeta Tau Alpha women’s fraternity.
A statement read, “Toby was a light in everyone’s life.
“There was never a dull moment with her and she was always there for the people she loved when they needed it.
“Toby truly left her mark while she was with us.
“She was seen as a leader, role model and mentor.
“She was strong, resilient, and never afraid to speak her mind.
“There will forever be a hole in our hearts and our chapter without her.
“She has touched the lives of so many.”
As of Thursday morning, more than $24,000 has been raised via GoFundMe.
Her page read, “Toby was one of those rare souls whose presence alone could light up an entire room.
“Always glowing with joy and positivity, she radiated warmth and happiness to everyone she encountered.
Source : https://www.the-sun.com/sport/14804572/toby-atwood-college-tennis-player-dead-half-marathon/
