Natalie Black, a standout in track and field, d!ed abruptly as she was napping after a meet.
The 19-year-old was a sophomore at Belhaven University in Jackson.
She had just gotten back from Clinton, where her college’s track and field team had their first outdoor meet of the year.
The talented athlete did well at the competition. Black broke her own record in the triple jump, jumping 11.01 meters and coming in second place.
WLBT spoke to Tytavia Hardy, Black’s team’s graduate assistant coach, who said, “She almost knocked me over with her celebration.”
Toiwarn Black, her father, also remarked, “She was like, ‘I’m going to make you proud,’ and she did that.”
Butch Ard, the 19-year-old’s head coach, said, “She walked over and said, ‘I know you saw that coach, I know you saw that.'” I said, “I saw it.”
After receiving the terrible news about the star athlete’s de@th, people have paid their respects on social media.
Someone wrote, “Natalie Black and family—she was an amazing athlete, and her legacy will live on!” I’m so sorry; soul, love, and beauty.
Another person comments, “I’ll keep praying for her teammates and the family.”
A third person says, “It’s so sad to see such a bright, young life cut short.” At this sad occasion, I’m thinking of her family.
Formeka Black also posted on Facebook about her last day with her daughter: Saturday was a great last day with her. We all enjoyed a great day with her from morning to night. She was really pleased!
That smile, dude! She set a new personal best in the triple jump, beating her old mark!
The Mississippi Track and Field Youth Club wrote, “We are very sad to hear about the de@th of Natalie Black, a true champion in Track & Field.”
Her skill, drive, and good sportsmanship inspired many people, both on and off the field.
People will always remember Natalie for her amazing contributions to the sport, and her legacy will inspire future generations.
At Belhaven’s outdoor track, Black’s family, friends, coaches, and teammates held a candlelight vigil in his honor.
People were free to share their best recollections of the 19-year-old throughout the poignant ceremony.
Everyone ran around the field at the end of the service to remember how much she loved the sport.
Her father stated, “It’s so great to be here with all these people who loved and cared for my baby. It’s just a great experience to see the love and feel the love.”
Her loved ones were shocked when Black d!ed.
The track and field athlete went back home to her family after the high of winning her first track meet of the season.
After a long day, the young celebrity chose to sleep on the couch.
Later that night, while still partying with family, she lay down on the couch for a nap and never woke up.
Toiwarn also said, “Thank God.” There was no pain. He showed us that much Grace!
There has been no official word on what killed Black.