In Memoriam: Brooks Sports customer service rep killed

Elizabeth “Liz” Duncan, a Brooks Sports customer service rep, was struck by a car in Seattle on April 21 and died at the scene. Duncan was out for a daily training run and stood at an intersection waiting for the rest of her running group to arrive when the accident occurred. According to a Brooks representative, an out-of-control car sped onto the sidewalk where she was standing.

Duncan, 26, is survived by her parents and two brothers from Washington’s Tri-Cities area. She was to celebrate her 27th birthday on April 24.

Brooks said on its website: “During her time at Brooks, Liz elevated teamwork, spirit, energy and confidence within her department and beyond. A consummate shining light for all that is good and inspirational in the world, she brightened the days of every employee, account and partner she came in contact with.”

To honor Duncan, the Liz Duncan Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established to provide scholarships for college athletes to attend Athletes in Action (AIA) summer mission trips. AIA is a ministry dedicated to building relationships, character and hope through sport.

Brooks Sports has established a Wells Fargo bank account to help make individual donations to the fund possible. Checks can be made out to the “Liz Duncan Memorial Fund” and mailed to: Liz Duncan Memorial Fund, c/o Brooks Sports Inc., 19910 North Creek Parkway, Suite 200, Bothell, WA 98011-8215.

Brooks said it is also honoring Duncan by dedicating a future running shoe in her honor. The Defyance, a new shoe available in early 2008, will carry her initials. Additionally, Brooks is creating commemorative shirts featuring a photo of Duncan that people can wear to the races she was registered for and planned to run throughout the coming year.