The New York running community is mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Charles Rogers, a 31-year-old Manhattan resident who collapsed during the Brooklyn Half Marathon on Saturday.
Charles suffered a medical episode, identified as cardiac arrest, around mile 8 of the race at Ocean Parkway and 18th Avenue. Emergency responders rushed him to Maimonides Medical Center, where, despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead.
Charles was not only a passionate runner but also a dedicated community member and advocate. He was running the half marathon as part of Team for Kids, a charitable organization affiliated with the New York Road Runners that raises money to support youth fitness and health programs.
Through his participation, Charles sought to inspire and empower the next generation of runners by supporting access to fitness opportunities in underserved communities.
A graduate of the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, where he studied Business and Marketing Education, Charles had built a thriving career in New York City.
In 2020, he joined Verizon as a Small Medium Business Specialist and quickly became a respected Senior Account Manager with Verizon Business. Colleagues remember him as a bright, driven, and caring team member whose positivity and commitment made a lasting impact.
“He put everything he had into everything he did,” said his wife, Sydney Rogers, from their home in Lower Manhattan. “While he leaves behind a wife and family that already miss him terribly, he loved being competitive and left us being 100% himself.”
The New York Road Runners released a statement expressing their condolences: “It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of one of today’s race participants. On behalf of the whole running community, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.”
Charles’s passion for running was just one aspect of his vibrant life. Friends describe him as genuine, thoughtful, and endlessly supportive. Whether it was helping colleagues with a tough project or training with friends for a race, he gave his all to the people and causes he believed in.
Saturday’s half marathon saw more than 28,000 runners take to the streets of Brooklyn. The course began near the Brooklyn Museum, wound through Prospect Park, and finished along the iconic Coney Island Boardwalk. What was meant to be a celebration of health and endurance turned somber for those who learned of Charles’s passing.
In the wake of this tragedy, many have already taken to social media to honor his memory and carry on his mission. Friends and fellow runners are continuing to donate to Team for Kids in his name, ensuring that Charles’s commitment to youth health and fitness endures.
Charles Rogers will be remembered not only for his professional achievements and athletic determination but most importantly for the heart and purpose he brought to all areas of his life. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sydney, and a wide circle of family, friends, colleagues, and fellow runners who will carry his memory forward.
In the face of this loss, the words Charles once posted to encourage donations now echo with even more meaning: “Your donation will be a powerful catalyst in empowering youth and communities to develop and encourage healthy habits through running.”
Charles lived those words—and his legacy will live on through them.
