Track & Field Fans’ Hearts Melt as American Runner Finds Unexpected Support in Berlin Marathon Crisis Berlin Marathon drama takes a heartwarming turn as a track and field athlete finds unexpected supp

Sometimes, glimpses of humanity appear in the most unexpected places and moments. The 2025 Berlin Marathon served up one such heartwarming scene when American track and field athlete Jay Glidewell of St. Louis, Mo., faced every athlete’s nightmare just 10K into the race. On the verge of giving up, hope arrived in the form of a spectator who came to his rescue. Let’s take a closer look at this remarkable incident, which unfolded just days after the World Athletics Championships.

Just 10 kilometers into the 2025 Berlin Marathon on September 21, the sole of Jay Glidewell’s right Nike Vaporfly 4% Flyknit tore off completely. With 32 kilometers still ahead, he was forced to continue barefoot, each step more painful than the last. Then, as if the marathon itself had conjured a miracle, help arr