28-04-2025
Shane McGuigan chokes back tears in emotional tribute to late sister after London Marathon
Boxer Shane McGuigan, son of Barry McGuigan, was clearly emotional after completing the London Marathon over the weekend, choking back tears when discussing his late sister Danika.
Danika, also known as Nika, had made a career for herself as an actress, and passed away in 2019 at the age of 33 after a brief battle with cancer, devasting her loving family.
Now, her brother Shane has revealed he ran the marathon in her honour, sharing how he was feeling after crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 3:08:17. Shane McGuigan with his father Barry in 2013. Pic: Dave M. Benett/WireImage
He told BBC after the race: 'My sister got diagnosed with leukaemia at 11-13, and she got through it, and then she unfortunately passed away with bowel cancer at 33 so yeah… I'm doing it for her.'
When asked what his message for people at home is that that might be considering the marathon for a matter close to their heart, he continued: 'Do it? Go and push yourself. I saw a lot of people unfortunately collapsing with dehydration and stuff, so [do it] within your limits. Push yourself, but go and do something. Shane McGuigan poses with his medal after completing the TCS London Marathon 2025. Pic: Karwai Tang/WireImage
'Go and challenge yourself. Health and fitness is such a big part of… it should be a big part of people's lives, and you only get one body, get one life. There's lots of people are not able to move so go out there, and move.'
Nika's family often remember her throughout the year, with her dad Barry paying tribute to her on her heavenly birthday earlier this year with a sweet social media post. @bbcsport Shane McGuigan ran the London Marathon for a cause close to his heart ❤️ #LondonMarathon #Marathon #Running #ShaneMcGuigan #London ♬ original sound – BBC Sport
Sharing a picture of the Can't Cope, Won't Cope star, Barry wrote: 'Happy Heavenly Birthday to our beloved Nika RIP who would have been 39 today. We live in hope that we will be together again.'
Many were quick to console Barry following the sweet tribute, taking to the comments to pay their respects.
Happy Heavenly Birthday to our beloved Nika RIP who would have been 39 today.
We live in hope that we will be together again 💔🙏 — Barry McGuigan (@ClonesCyclone) January 4, 2025
'What a beautiful daughter she was Barry. What a shame she was taken away so early. RIP,' one user wrote.
'What a beautiful young woman she was Barry. Always with you in your hearts xx,' another shared.
'What a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to Nika on her heavenly birthday. It's clear how much love you hold for her, and keeping her memory alive in this way is a testament to that bond. May you find comfort in your hope and the cherished memories you shared,' a third penned.
