The Brooklyn Half Marathon, a vibrant celebration of grit and community, turned somber this past Saturday when Charles “Ace” Rogers, a 31-year-old former college football standout, collapsed during the race and tragically passed away. For the nearly 30,000 runners pounding the pavement, it was a muggy, punishing morning in New York City, with temps creeping into the low 80s. But for Rogers, a competitor who lived life at full speed, the day ended in heartbreak around mile eight on Ocean Parkway. Despite a swift response from medical teams and a rush to Maimonides Medical Center, he couldn’t be saved.
Ace Rogers wasn’t just a name in the race results—he was a force. A former defensive back who left his mark at Lindenwood University and the University of Minnesota, Rogers brought the same fire to running that he did to the gridiron. “Charles put everything he had into everything he did,” his wife, Sydney, shared with raw emotion, speaking to The New York Post. “He loved being competitive and left us being 100% himself.” That’s the Ace everyone knew: a guy who attacked every challenge—whether it was a fourth-quarter stand or a 13.1-mile course—with unrelenting heart.
The conditions on Saturday were brutal, no question. The humidity hung heavy, testing even the most seasoned runners. Rogers, though, was no stranger to pushing through adversity. He’d done it as a standout at Lindenwood, where he earned respect as a tenacious playmaker, and later at Minnesota, where his grit shone in the Big Ten spotlight. Running was just another way for him to channel that competitive spirit, but around 8:11 a.m., tragedy struck, leaving the running and football communities reeling.
Lindenwood Football’s tribute captured the depth of the loss: “The Lindenwood Football family mourns the loss of Ace Rogers. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Sydney, his parents Teresa Jordan and Charles Rogers, and the rest of his family.” The University of Minnesota echoed that sentiment, with the Gophers football program posting about their heartbreak and sending love to Rogers’ loved ones. These weren’t just formalities—Ace was a teammate, a leader, and a friend who left an indelible mark.
New York Road Runners, the folks behind the Brooklyn Half, felt the weight of the moment too. Crystal Howard, their Chief Communications and Community Coordinator, spoke for the organization: “It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we confirm the passing of one of today’s race participants. On behalf of the whole running community, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.” It’s a reminder of how tight-knit the running world is—when one falls, everyone feels it.
Rogers’ story is one of passion and perseverance. From tearing up the field to lacing up his running shoes, he lived with an all-in mentality that inspired those around him. His wife’s words paint a picture of a man who didn’t know half-measures, and that’s how he’ll be remembered: as a competitor who gave everything, right up to the end. As the running and football communities come together to honor Ace, they’re not just mourning a loss—they’re celebrating a life lived with purpose and heart. Here’s to you, Ace—your spirit’s still running strong.
