Runner in critical condition airlifted from Upper Rancho Oso Campground trail in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara County firefighters performed a helicopter hoist rescue in the Upper Rancho Oso Campground on Saturday afternoon.

Fire officials said they responded to reports of a medical emergency in the Paradise Rd. area around 1:50 p.m.

When crews arrived on scene, they found a male runner unconscious near the 19 Oaks Trail along the Santa Ynez River.

The runner, believed to be in his mid-20's, was participating in an endurance run, according to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.

According to officials, the runner was moved to a location so paramedics could be lowered down in Helicopter 308.

Authorities said the patient was in critical condition and was flown to Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital.