One participant died and multiple others collapsed during the BTN Jakarta International Marathon (JAKIM) 2026, which took place from June 13–14, 2026. In the wake of these incidents, medical experts are stressing the critical importance of monitoring physical health signals during endurance events to prevent future fatalities.
Dr. Andi Kurniawan, a sports medicine specialist, emphasizes that deciding not to start a race (DNS) when feeling unwell is a sign of a courageous and wise runner, rather than a failure.
How to monitor body signals during a race
Sports medicine specialist Dr. Andi Kurniawan, SpKO, advises that runners must actively “listen to their bodies” by tracking specific physical parameters while on the course. If a runner experiences pain in the knees, legs, or chest, they should immediately reduce their pace.
Dr. Kurniawan suggests that if discomfort persists, participants should stop entirely to perform stretches, check their heart rate, and regulate their breathing. Symptoms such as dizziness or confusion should be treated as serious warnings, as they may indicate the body is struggling to cope with environmental conditions like heat.
The tragedy at the 2026 event highlights the high stakes of endurance sports where the drive to achieve a “personal best” can sometimes override basic survival instincts. Prioritizing health over finishing times is a necessary cultural shift in the running community to ensure that competitive goals do not become life-threatening.
Why pre-race fitness checks matter
The assessment of physical readiness should begin before a runner even arrives at the starting line. Dr. Kurniawan states that upon waking on race day, participants must honestly evaluate whether they are 100 percent fit to compete.
If a runner feels unwell, they should be prepared to declare a “Did Not Start” (DNS) status. According to Dr. Kurniawan, prioritizing health over finishing or achieving a specific time is the most important message for the running community to embrace, as personal records should be viewed only as a bonus.
What happens next
Following the events of the June 2026 marathon, it is likely that organizers and medical professionals will increase advocacy for self-monitoring protocols. Runners may face stricter guidelines regarding medical disclosures, and there is a possibility that future race briefings will place a greater emphasis on the legitimacy of DNF (Did Not Finish) or DNS decisions as responsible health choices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a runner do if they feel pain during a race?
According to Dr. Andi Kurniawan, runners should immediately reduce their speed, stop to stretch, check their heart rate, and monitor their breathing if they experience pain in the legs, knees, or chest.
Is it acceptable to drop out of a marathon?
Yes. Dr. Kurniawan emphasizes that choosing not to start (DNS) or failing to finish (DNF) are wise, courageous decisions that prioritize health over finishing times.
What are the signs that a runner should stop immediately?
Runners should be alert for symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and abnormal heart rates or breathing patterns, which may indicate that the body is failing to adapt to race conditions.
How can race organizers better support runners in making the decision to prioritize health over finishing?