Tragedy struck Disneyland’s Halloween Half Marathon this past weekend as 35-year-old Bobby Graves, a passionate runner and TikTok creator known by his middle name Caleb, passed away shortly after crossing the finish line. The incident occurred amidst Southern California’s blistering heat wave, adding to the race’s already challenging nature.

Graves, who had no known medical conditions, collapsed around 7 a.m. just after clutching his chest. A quick-acting volunteer caught him before he fell. Despite medical efforts, he couldn’t be revived, leaving the Disneyland and running communities in deep mourning. Anaheim Police Sgt. Matt Sutter confirmed these details in an interview with the Los Angeles Times.

The day before his untimely death, Caleb posted a TikTok video where he shared his concerns about the heat. “I really hope I get through the race tomorrow morning,” he said, recounting an episode of heat exhaustion experienced while walking his dog. His heartfelt content inspired and connected with over 18,000 followers, and his loss has resonated deeply across social media platforms, with fans expressing their sorrow and admiration for his dedication.

Disneyland Resort and runDisney, known for orchestrating popular marathon events, expressed their condolences through spokesperson Jessica Good: “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our hearts are with Caleb’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.” Caleb’s running résumé includes completing Disney World’s full marathon and half-marathon races in 2024 and 2023, cementing his legacy in the Disney running community.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the potential dangers of extreme weather conditions, even for those in peak physical condition. As friends and family continue to share their condolences, Caleb’s legacy as an avid runner and Disney lover endures.

We invite our readers to share their thoughts and condolences in the comments below. Have you experienced Disneyland’s marathons? How do you cope with running in extreme conditions? Let’s continue the conversation and honor Caleb’s memory together.

Source: Iman Palm