Tokyo Olympic Sprinter And Ex-Texas A&M Star Dies At 29

Deon Lendore, an Olympic bronze medal-winning sprinter for Trinidad and Tobago and former NCAA champion at Texas A&M, was killed in a head-on collision in Texas, state police mentioned. He was 29.

Lendore, a volunteer assistant coach at Texas A&M, died Monday after his automotive drifted throughout the middle line, sideswiped a automobile after which collided with a sport-utility automobile, mentioned Sgt. Bryan Washko, a Texas Division of Public Security spokesman. Texas A&M coach Pat Henry mentioned Lendore was driving dwelling from follow when the crash occurred.

Lendore died on the scene. The motive force of the SUV, a 65-year-old lady, was taken to a hospital with severe accidents, DPS mentioned. The motive force of the automobile sideswiped by Lendore earlier than the collision was not injured. The reason for the crash was underneath investigation Tuesday.

Lendore ran within the 2012, 2016 and 2020 Olympics and anchored Trinidad and Tobago to a bronze medal within the 1,600-meter relay in London in 2012. In 2014, he went undefeated by 14 races at 400 meters whereas successful particular person NCAA indoor and out of doors championships.

“He epitomized hope and pleasure every time his ft landed on the observe,” Trinidad Minister of Sport and Group Growth Shamfa Cudjoe mentioned. “He was certainly a trailblazer, a life gone too quickly. We thank him for every little thing he has finished and for giving distinguished and diligent service to TT.”

Lendore spent the previous two years as a volunteer assistant at Texas A&M whereas he continued to compete professionally.

“I can’t even categorical this loss,” Henry mentioned. “Over time our relationship had modified to not solely considered one of my athletes to teach, however he was cherished by my spouse, youngsters and grandchildren. He was a part of my household. It hurts, it actually hurts.”