Josh Kerr of Scotland ran in the 1500 meters final, which Jakob Ingebrigtsen won. The race took place just half an hour after the news of Queen Elizabeth II’s death.

In the press zone after the race, Kerr received a message from NRK, and he reacted immediately.

– You gave me the news now. This is very sad. I extend my condolences to the family. What a role model. This is hard news to accept now. “I don’t know about that,” Kerr told NRK.

– Do you think your reaction is common in Great Britain?

– With a heavy heart, yes. But she lived a beautiful life and inspired many people. I am very grateful to him, he said.

– Epic roles

Queen Elizabeth showed a clear interest in British sport during her 70 years as supreme leader of the British monarchy.

He has taken part in several sporting events both at home and abroad, was awarded a number of medals, and has an extra passion for riding.

In 2012, he played a major role in the 2012 London Olympics.

Sebastian Coe, head of the International Athletics Federation, has his greatest memory of Queen Elizabeth from those matches.

– He played an epic role in the opening ceremony, by agreeing to shoot James Bond. It set the standard as the most unexpected wink of any opening ceremony, and in my opinion the best opening ceremony of all time, Coe told NRK.

Got a message at the stand

Coe received the message as he sat down with British athletic fans at an event in Zurich on Thursday.

– We are all sad, we are silent. None of us can think of a time in our lives when the Queen is not with us. He’s always there. The continuity and friendship he shared with Great Britain, and with so many countries around the world, will be missed, he further said.

– What do you most want to remember about the queen?

– His life is summed up with an exemplary commitment to public service and duty. I can’t think of anyone else who has contributed so much, and given so much over such a long period of time. And his interest and warmth that is common to people. “That’s something I’ve always wanted to think about,” Coe said.

He thought it would be a depressing atmosphere when he finally returned to England. On Friday, news came that British authorities were declaring national mourning.

– But I also think that people will warmly reflect on his contribution. “I hope the family recognizes His Majesty’s contribution, in the great sadness and grief they feel,” he said.

Multiple mourning profiles

Australian Stewart McSweyn, who also ran in the 1500 meters final, was affected by the news that came on Thursday night.

– I just knew that. This is very sad. The Queen means a lot to us, and she has done a fantastic job. He is loved, not only in England, but in Australia and in all other countries.

– Sad to receive the message, but what a legacy he left. The work he has done over the years is simply incredible to witness, McSweyn told NRK.

Football legend David Beckham has met the Queen on several occasions. He wrote this on his Instagram profile on Thursday:

– How full of love and respect we saw through his life in service. How devastated we are today shows how much he means to people in this country, and around the world. Until his last days, he ruled the country with dignity and grace, he wrote among other things.