Marathon runner Callum Hawkins discharged from hospital after collapse

Scotland's Callum Hawkins collapsed while leading the Commonwealth Games marathon on Sunday with just a mile-and-a-half to go. Picture: Jeff Holmes/Handout Photo/PA Wire.

The runner collapsed while leading the Commonwealth Games marathon on Sunday with just a mile-and-a-half to go.

There was an initial delay in Hawkins receiving treatment as he struggled against the 27C (80F) heat - something the organising committee has defended - before he was taken to hospital in an ambulance.

But the 25-year-old has now been released after staying in overnight.

He said: “I’d like to say a huge thanks to all the medical staff at Gold Coast University Hospital for their care over the last 24 hours - and it’s great to now be back with my teammates.”

Hawkins was going for his first major title, having come fourth in the World Championships last year.

He had a lead of around two minutes before he fell with Australia’s Michael Shelley passing him and winning the race, Scotland’s Robbie Simpson won bronze.

A Team Scotland statement read: “Team Scotland is pleased to confirm Callum Hawkins has been discharged from Gold Coast University Hospital today and has been reunited with his teammates in the Commonwealth Games Village, ahead of the team’s return to the UK.

“We would like to thank all the supporters and well-wishers for their kind messages of support and the care and concern that has been shown, particularly here on the Gold Coast. “