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Second Missing Ultra-Runner Found

Thursday, Sep 24, 2009 | Updated 6:47 AM PST

Two ultra-runners missing since Sunday have now been found alive.

Fidel Diaz and his sister-in-law Gina Armenta disappeared during a 30-mile run Sunday in Orange County's Cleveland National Forest.

Wednesday morning a maintenance worker at a private retreat and camp spotted the 53 year old Diaz. A rescue helicopter crew spotted Armenta a few hours later in a ravine.

She was airlifted to Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo where she is being treated for severe dehydration.

Friends say Gina Armenta likely survived because she’s an ultra-runner, someone used to long runs over rough terrain. “A very tough athlete and she’s no stranger to those kinds of distances or conditions,” said Michelle Melham, Armenta’s friend.

She is expected to recover fully.