Natasha Ward has died at the age of 21.
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The death of the up-and-coming track and field star was confirmed on Thursday, July 30, in a joint statement from NSW Athletics and Sutherland Districts Athletics Club in Sydney, Australia. PEOPLE then reported the news.
The Australian middle-distance runner competed in the Australian Championships in 2024 with stars Morgan Mitchell and Claudia Hollingsworth. She most recently won a bronze medal in the 800-meter race at the UniSport Nationals in April.
Natasha Ward Was "Greatly Loved"
The statement shared that Ward was a "celebrated" runner.
"As a junior, she medalled at NSW All Schools over 1500m," it also added. "She carried that success into her senior career, medalling at UniSport Nationals over 1500m in 2023, and this April, claiming UniSport National bronze in the 800m."
But Ward was more than just an athlete, the statement added. She was also an inspiration to others.
"Beyond her achievements on the track, Natasha was a greatly loved member of our community," it read. "Her kindness and joy touched everyone fortunate enough to know her, and her magnetic smile and warm personality have left a permanent mark on Australian athletics. Natasha's enthusiasm and determination inspired her training partners."
Friends Paid Tribute to the Track and Field Star
Ward was also a student at Macquarie University in Sydney where her fields of study were exercise and sports science.
"Natasha was an active member of the [Sutherland Districts Athletics Club], competing in both summer and winter relays each year, and was always willing to step in and help whenever a team was short," her athletic club said in its statement.
Ward's cause of death has not yet been shared publicly.
One commenter remembers a moment when Ward took care of her and her son at a local Nike store.
"I'll never forget coming down the escalator as she was heading up for her break," the commenter wrote. "We smiled at each other as we passed, and her warmth and kindness were unforgettable. She truly had the most beautiful presence."
