Scary scenes as race leader collapses during 'brutal' New York Marathon

A New York City Marathon runner collapsed in scary scenes while leading in what has been described as a ‘brutal’ race.

Brazil’s Daniel do Nascimento was leading in the 21st mile of the race and about six miles away from the finish.

The New York Post reports that do Nascimento had a massive lead for the majority of the race, however, began to fade after taking an 18-second break to use the loo.

Footage shows the Brazilian coming up to a corner before appearing to completely struggle with his footing.

His legs begin to wobble as he slowly collapses to the ground in truly frightening scenes.

The runner looks in distress as he lies on the floor before medical personnel rush to help him and cool him down.

Temperatures were uncharacteristically high for this time of year at 22C and 67 per cent humidity, making for less than ideal conditions for the runners.

Professional runner Reed Fischer spoke to the New York Post about the heat, claiming it was likely what caused the race leader to collapse prior to the finish.

He said: “It was a day to run smarter rather than harder.

“You could feel it by mile two. I mean, you’re sweating way earlier than you would otherwise be sweating. So, it hurts pretty much the whole time.”

Running sports writer Jonathan Gault had predicted on Twitter that do Nascimento may have been running too fast at the beginning and would struggle later on in the race.

Thankfully, the professional runner took to Instagram to reveal that he was okay after being attended to by medical personnel.

He said: “Guys, first I would like to reassure all of you who support me and follow my work. I am fine! I was promptly attended to by the medical team of the race and you can rest assured that I am recovered.

“Unfortunately, there are days when things don't go as we plan and [as we] would like. It took more than 5 months of work and preparation for the major in New York and, after a good first half, I ended up not resisting in the final part of the race.

“Another experience, new learnings, and the certainty that I will continue working even harder to represent Brazil, always doing my best.

“Thank you for all your love and support!”

Kenya’s Evans Chebet went on to win the men’s marathon with a time of two hours, eight minutes and 41 seconds, taking the lead after do Nascimento collapsed.

Sharon Lokedi, also from Kenya, was the women’s champion with a time of two hours, 23 minutes and 23 seconds.