Tributes have been pouring in for Ellen Cassidy, a 24-yr-old woman who passed away in hospital yesterday after falling ill at the end of the Cork City Marathon, reports RTE.
Ms Cassidy became unwell around 1pm shortly after completing the half marathon event in Cork city centre.
Medical personnel treated her at the scene before she was taken by ambulance to Cork University Hospital, reports RTE.
She was pronounced dead not long after arriving at the hospital.
Ms Cassidy was an accomplished swimmer who had been a member of Dolphin Swimming Club in Mayfield, on Cork city’s northside, since she was nine years old.
In a heartfelt Facebook message, the club shared that Ellen left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered, reports RTE.
“Ellen swam through life with grace, strength and passion. Your smile and your drive will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to all the Cassidy’s family and friends,” reports RTE.
Ms Cassidy was cherished at the club not only for her athletic abilities but also for her warmth and generosity.
When she competed in Luxembourg seven years ago as part of Team Ireland, the club stated they were “couldn’t be prouder” of her, reports RTE.
She was also hailed as a “positive role model” for younger swimmers at the club.
Swim Munster called Ms Cassidy an “inspiration to everyone she met” and praised her commitment to the sport.
Sunday’s Well Swimming Club reflected on her “spirit, dedication and friendship,” saying it left a mark on everyone who knew her. Mallow Swans Swimming Club spoke of how she represented the sport “with grace and passion,” while Streamline Swim in Cobh remembered her as a “kind soul,” reports RTE.
The Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle, extended his sincere sympathies to Ms Cassidy’s family and friends.
“Our thoughts are with you at this difficult time,” he said, reports RTE.
Ms Cassidy had proudly represented her club, her province Munster, and Ireland.
She competed internationally for Ireland at the European Youth Olympics and the European Junior Championships.
She was also part of the UCC Emerging Talent programme and took part in international school-level competitions for Ireland, reports RTE.
Meanwhile, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork and Green Party Councillor Honore Kamegni shared on X that he was filled with “deep sadness” upon hearing of Ms Cassidy’s death.
“She became unwell at the finish line on Patrick Street. Immediate medical attention was provided to her. My heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones,” reports RTE.
Organisers of the marathon issued a statement expressing their sorrow at the death of one of the participants.
“The person was attended to immediately by the emergency services on the scene. Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the deceased,” reports RTE.
Road closures had been implemented to accommodate the marathon. Ambulance teams were stationed at the event.
Volunteers from Cork City Civil Defence, Cork West Cork Civil Defence, and members of the Irish Red Cross were also present to assist.
Over 11,000 participants ran in the Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K events, reports RTE.
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