Australian runner Jemma Stapleton, a finalist in the 2025 Stawell Gift, has died while on vacation in Thailand. She was 25.
Videos by FanBuzz
A family friend said Stapleton died in a motorcycle accident while traveling overseas with family, per 7News. Additional details surrounding the crash were not immediately released.
Stapleton was a rising competitor on the Victorian Athletic League circuit and earned national attention when she finished third in the prestigious Stawell Gift in 2025, one of Australia's most celebrated professional footraces.
She returned to the event in 2026 and again advanced to the semifinals.
Knox Little Athletics, where Stapleton competed as a youth athlete, said it was "deeply saddened" by the news of her death.
"From an early age, she showed great talent, determination and a genuine love for athletics," the organization said in a statement, adding that she later represented Knox at the state level.
The Victorian Athletic League also paid tribute, describing Stapleton as a rising star whose presence and character left a lasting impression on those around her.
Athletics coach Scott Rowsell remembered Stapleton as "a beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling."
Tributes also poured in from teammates, friends and family members on social media following news of her death.
An online fundraiser established to assist the Stapleton family with expenses associated with bringing her home quickly drew support, raising tens of thousands of dollars within hours.
Stapleton had recently been pursuing opportunities in professional running while remaining active on Australia's athletics circuit.
