Irish Olympic medallist adds to tributes for young woman who died after running Cork half-marathon

The Irish Sun

03-06-2025

OLYMPIC medallist Mona McSharry has added to the tributes paid after the death of Ellen Cassidy following the Cork half-marathon.
Ellen, 24,
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Ellen Cassidy died after competing in the Cork City half-marathon on Sunday
Credit: rip.ie
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McSharry has expressed her sympathy as the Irish swimming community mourns Ms Cassidy's death
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The Olympic bronze medallist reposted University College Cork's heartfelt statement mourning Ellen's death
Credit: @MONALMCSHARRY
She was tended to at the scene by paramedics before being transferred to Cork University
Ellen was a champion
Such was her ability that she had represented Ireland at the European Youth Olympics as well as the European Junior Championships.
The college graduate was a member of University College Cork's Emerging Talent programme.
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Her college issued a heartfelt statement on her passing which Paris Games medallist McSharry has since reposted on her Instagram account.
It read: "In loving memory of Ellen Cassidy. It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of Ellen's sudden passing of our dear friend, teammate and former captain, who tragically passed away on Sunday.
"Ellen was so much more than just a swimmer, she was the heart of it.
"From her early days as treasure to her her time leading as co-captain, Ellen brought unmatched energy, dedication and care to everything she did.
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"She was the kind of person who showed up for every set, every teammate, every moment and she made it better by just being there.
"Anyone who knew Ellen will remember the way she lit up a pool deck.
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"She had the brightest smile, the warmest hello and the effortless way of making everyone feel seen and valued.
"She never let anyone feel like a stranger, she learned your name, asked how you were, and really meant it.
"Ellen graduated from UCC in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, commitment and genuine love for this team and everyone in it.
"As co-captain she brought us together, celebrated our wins big and small, and made sure that no one ever felt alone ever.
"Our thoughts and sympathies are with Ellen's family, her many friends, and everyone lucky enough to have known her.
"Her absence is felt deeply, but her spirit will always be a part of this team.
"We love you Ellen, thank you for everything. You will always be with us, in every practice, every race, every laugh on deck and in our hearts. Rest in peace, Ellen Cassidy."
SEPARATE TRAGEDY
Tragically,
Olivia Tuohy was a student at Queen Margaret University on the outskirts of the Scottish capital.
The news of her tragic passing has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community in Ennis, Co
In a moving tribute paid by her heartbroken family, they said: "Olivia, a bright and beautiful spirit, passed away on May 25 while participating in the Edinburgh Half Marathon.
"Olivia's bubbly personality and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
"Olivia is survived by her heartbroken parents, Kieran and Liz; her brother Stephen and his partner Laura; her loving partner Michael and his parents Maria-Elena and Steven; her aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbours, and her friends both in Ireland and Edinburgh."
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Olivia Tuohy passed away after running in the Edinburgh Half Marathon on May 25
Credit: rip.ie
Tributes were also paid by the Clare ladies football team, stating how her "kindness, warmth and vibrant spirit" had a huge impact on their lives.
They wrote: "We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Olivia Tuohy.
"Her kindness, warmth, and vibrant spirit touched so many lives on and off the football field, and her absence will be felt profoundly.
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to her family, friends, her partner and all who loved her during this difficult time. May she rest in peace."
The Banner Ladies football club, for whom she also played, said: "We wish to express our sadness at the passing of our friend and former teammate, Olivia Tuohy, daughter of Liz and Kieran.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with her parents, her brother Stephen, her partner Michael, and her family at this sad time. May her gentle soul rest in peace."
On Sunday a minute's silence was observed at all GAA games in Clare in her memory.