Heppner was 29.
A member of the United States Army World Class Athlete Program, Heppner was a resident athlete who trained at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, Calif. He placed fifth in the U.S. Olympic Team Trials for the 50 km Race Walk this past Sunday (February 15) in Chula Vista.
In addition to his training, Heppner worked part-time as a cashier in the dining hall at the U.S. Olympic Training Center and took graduate classes at nearby San Diego State University.
One of America's most accomplished race walkers, Heppner began competing on the national level in 1993. His top finishes included placing first at the USA 5 km Race Walk Championships in 2002, second at the USA 30 km Race Walk Championships in 2004, second at the USA 15 km and 20 km Race Walk Championships in 2002, and second at the USA 50 km Race Walk Championships in 1999. He was an NAIA All- American and the NAIA 5 km Race Walk National Champion in 1997 while competing for the University of Wisconsin-Parkside, from which he graduated in 1997.
Born April 24, 1974 in Columbia, Md., Heppner graduated from Howard High School in Ellicott City, Md., in 1992.
"Al served his country with pride and honor, both on the field of competition and as a member of the United States Army World Class Athlete Program. His many contributions to the sport of race walking will endure and serve as a reflection of his commitment and dedication to the sport. It is during this difficult period of sudden loss that we extend our deepest sympathies to Al's family, his teammates and his many friends," said USOC Chief Executive Jim Scherr.
