American Olympic bronze medallist and world champion 1,500m runner Jenny Simpson collapsed after suffering a medical episode while pacing a mile group at an event in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Simpson underwent CPR at the track and an automated external defibrillator was also used before taking her to the hospital.

The 39-year-old Simpson was taking part in a community track event hosted by Sir Walter Running, with runners of all levels encouraged to attend. 

The event featured a chance to meet Simpson.

"We are incredibly grateful to the individuals who responded immediately, as well as EMS and the medical professionals who handled the situation with such care, urgency, and professionalism," the Sir Walter Running Team wrote on Instagram.

The statement added: "Jenny is receiving excellent medical care, and our thoughts are with her and her family during this time."

Simpson won the bronze medal in the 1,500m at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games. She also won the 1,500m at the 2011 world championships, along with silver medals in 2013 and 2017.

AP