Dario Melaragni passes away

Posted in Dishing the Dirt by Matt Ward on Tue 14 Jul '09

© www.westhighlandwayrace.org

The inspirational race director of the West Highland Way race sadly died whilst out on a run in the mountains that he loved. The 46 year-old collapsed whilst near to the summit of Lochnagar on Saturday.

He was running with a group of friends who appear to have struggled in vain to save him. The boards and blogs have been full of messages of condolences and anecdotes from the many people that crossed paths with Dario over the years.

Another infectious and inspirational figure departs, leaving the sport all the poorer…

© bebo.com

Dario Melaragni

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  1. Dave Waterman Jul 14, 07:01 PM

    The loss of Dario to the UK Ultra Running community could not be overstated. His tireless and passionate involvement in the sport, which was/is exemplified by the West Highland Way Race, has touched so many people both within these islands and beyond.

    Dario was a friend of mine. I will miss him greatly. People of his calibre do not come around often.

    Rest well, my friend.

  2. Steve Walker Jul 16, 10:01 AM

    Dear Sirs,

    It was with great sadness I received the news of Dario’s death this weekend.

    I only met Dario during this years WHW race, but it was very clear that he was a great guy to be around and held the respect of many noble people. He will be dearly missed in the ultra community and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of his company.

    His passing seems particularly cruel given his age, zest for life and spirit of adventure. But perhaps even in this there is the Grace of God; It seems Dario went ‘home’ doing what he loved to do, among the peaks where he loved to do it.

    “Run Free Dario – Run Free”

    Deepest condolences to his family & friends.

    Grace & peace to you at this difficult time.

    Steve Walker

  3. Drew Broadley Jul 20, 09:20 AM

    Just wanted to point out a little typing error in your article about Dario. The expression “in vein” should be spelt “in vain”

  4. Matt Jul 20, 10:30 AM

    Thanks for that Drew…

  5. Zahir Jul 23, 11:15 AM

    Simply put, one of the kindest people i ever knew .

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