July 18, 2025

Tragic Death of Endurance Runner at Hardrock 100 Race

News Summary

Elaine Stypula, a seasoned endurance athlete from Michigan, died during the Hardrock 100 race in Silverton, Colorado, on July 11. The 60-year-old collapsed three hours into the grueling 102.5-mile race, sparking immediate CPR efforts from emergency responders. Despite their attempts, she was pronounced dead shortly after. The Hardrock 100 is known for its tough conditions and significant elevation change. The race organizers and local officials have expressed condolences to Stypula’s family and have made grief counselors available for the community affected by this tragedy.

Silverton, Colorado – Elaine Stypula, a 60-year-old woman from Michigan, tragically collapsed and died while participating in the Hardrock 100 endurance race on July 11, 2025. The event, known for its challenging course, spans 102.5 miles through the mountainous terrain of Colorado, with a staggering elevation change of 33,197 feet.

The incident occurred approximately three hours into the race near Little Giant Basin, close to Gold Lake, east of Silverton. The San Juan County Colorado Coroner’s Office has confirmed Stypula’s identity, although the cause of death has not yet been released to the public.

Emergency responders were alerted shortly after 9 a.m. regarding a runner in need of CPR. The San Juan County sheriff’s deputies and the Silverton Medical Rescue team rapidly mobilized, navigating backcountry roads and trekking approximately a quarter-mile on the Little Giant Trail to reach Stypula. Rescue crews began resuscitation efforts, but she was ultimately pronounced dead at 10:27 a.m. on the same day.

In response to Stypula’s passing, Keri Metzler from the San Juan County Colorado Coroner’s Office expressed condolences to her family, friends, and community. In conjunction with this, the Hardrock 100 endurance event also conveyed their sorrow through social media, emphasizing their commitment to supporting runners, crews, volunteers, and the surrounding community during this difficult time.

Stypula was no novice when it came to endurance sports. She was an experienced athlete who had completed multiple Ironman triathlons, ultra-distance races exceeding 100 miles, and mountain climbing expeditions. Her background in various demanding athletic events underscored her determination and passion for endurance racing.

The Hardrock 100 is particularly grueling, requiring participants to complete the race within a cut-off time of 48 hours. This demanding time limit is a testament to the strenuous nature of the competition, which has become a significant event in the endurance running community. Following the incident, grief counselors were made available at the Silverton Gym for those affected by the tragedy, acknowledging the emotional toll Stypula’s death had on fellow racers and supporters.

As officials investigate the circumstances surrounding Stypula’s death, more information is expected to be released following the conclusion of the race on Sunday. Runners, crews, and the local community remain in mourning, reflecting on the challenges and risks associated with extreme endurance races like the Hardrock 100.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the physical demands and potential hazards associated with ultramarathons, and Stypula’s legacy as a dedicated participant in endurance sports will be remembered within her community and beyond.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Community Mourns Loss of Acclaimed Ultra-Marathon Runner
Tragedy Strikes at Hardrock Hundred Mile Endurance Run

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER

The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

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