Tributes paid to ‘hugely talented' young athlete after tragic cancer battle

Belfast Telegraph

4 days ago

Oisín Cassidy, from Derrylin, was a successful runner who picked up both local and national accolades leading him to represent NI on the international stage.
The 22-year-old died peacefully on Monday while surrounded by loved ones following a battle with cancer and is survived by mum, Veronica, uncles, Gerald and Cleo, and grandfather Emmett.
A funeral notice carried a tribute from his 'heartbroken' family.
"Deeply regretted by his sorrowing mother, aunt, uncle, grandad, cousins and extended family circle,' it said.
Oisín's running coach Francis Shaw has reflected on the 'courage and determination' the young man showed despite the devastating diagnosis.
'Oisin will be remembered by the many people who had the good fortune to teach, coach or train and compete alongside him, as not only a hugely talented and committed student athlete, but also as a gentle, caring, compassionate and thoughtful young man who improved the lives of all of us,' he said.
Oisín kickstarted his athletics career at St Ninidh's Primary before continuing the sport at St Michael's College and was a member of Enniskillen Running Club and CNDR Track Club in Belfast.
A charity event 'Around the Rock for Oisin' organised by Derrylin Rock Runners raised over £45k for several causes of his choice including a new cancer support centre in Enniskillen.
In a tribute online, the club said: 'Throughout his illness, Oisín showed remarkable strength, dignity, and kindness. Even during his toughest days he thought of others allowing us to host the 5/10K Around the Rock event in his honor, raising an incredible amount for his chosen cancer charities.
'But most of all we will remember Oisín as a kind inspirational young man who was highly respected in our community and we extend our deepest sympathy to his Mum Veronica and all of the Cassidy family.'
Belfast running club Annadale Striders said: 'Oisin was a winner of the Andrew Campbell Cup while competing for St Michael's, Enniskillen and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him through athletics. Our condolences to his Mum Veronica and the family circle.'
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Derrylin O'Connells GAA club expressed shock at the 'tragic passing' of one of their former youth team members.
Oisín had made a return at senior level for the side but was forced to step away following his diagnosis.
'Our club is in shock and mourning at the tragic passing of Oisin Cassidy. Oisin proudly represented our club at underage levels and was part of our Under 12 Division 1 league winning team in 2015.
'Oisin was a talented and gifted athlete used his athletic prowess to occupy the midfield and wing half back positions in our teams. Oisin would cover every blade of grass when he was on field, with surging runs his trademark.
'Our deepest condolences go out to Oisin's mother Veronica, the whole Cassidy family and Oisin's friends and teammates.
'As a mark of respect all club activities will be postponed until after Oisin is laid to rest.'
A Requiem Mass took place in St Ninnidh's Church in Derrylin on Wednesday before Oisin was buried in the adjoining cemetery.