Tributes pour in for woman who died after collapsing during Cork City Marathon
Tributes have been pouring in following the death of Ellen Cassidy. The 24-year-old died after becoming ill while taking part in the Cork City Marathon on Sunday.
Ms Cassidy was running the half-marathon when she became seriously ill and collapsed near the finish line at around 1pm. Thousands of runners took part in the event, with 550 international participants from more than 26 countries.
A statement from organisers read: 'Cork City Council is deeply saddened to confirm that a participant in the Cork City Marathon has tragically passed away.
'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.'
Tributes have been pouring in for Ms Cassidy, a talented swimmer from Old Mallow Road in Cork city.
The Dolphin Swimming Club, which she joined when she was nine years old, wrote on social media: '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.
Sundays Well Swimming Club commented: "Our swimming community is deeply saddened by Ellen's passing. Her spirit, dedication, and friendship touched us all."
Cork City Council posted on X: "Cork City Council is deeply saddened at the passing of Ellen Cassidy, a participant of yesterday's Cork City Marathon. Lord Mayor of Cork, Councillor Dan Boyle has offered his sincere condolences to Ellen's family and friends saying "We extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and all who knew Ellen. Our thoughts are with you all at this difficult time."
Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork, councillor Honore Kamegni, also offered his "heartfelt condolences" to Ms Cassidy's family following Sunday's tragedy.
"It is with deep sadness that I heard the passing of a woman in her 20s at the Cork Marathon today," he wrote on X.
"She became unwell at the finish line on Patrick Str. Immediate medical attention was provided to her. My heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones."
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