Irish middle-distance runner Ciara Mageean, who won European gold and competed at two Olympic Games, has died aged 34, her family have announced. The athlete, from Portaferry, Northern Ireland, died at 6.30am on Sunday. In a post on social media, her family said she was surrounded by her loved ones.
They said: “A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed.” Mageean was one of the most high-profile athletes in Ireland, specialising in the 1500m event. She represented Ireland at both the 2016 Rio Olympics and 2020 Tokyo Olympics, as well as holding a slew of Irish records. She went on to become the first individual Irish European champion since Sonia O’Sullivan when she struck gold at the 2024 championships in Rome.
Mageean was unable to compete at the 2024 Olympics due to an achilles injury. The following year, Mageean announced she had been diagnosed with cancer. She went on to marry her partner Thomas Moran in October only weeks before her death.
Taoiseach Micheál Martin said he was deeply saddened at her untimely passing. Tánaiste Simon Harris described the news as heartbreaking. He said: “She was a European champion, two-time Olympian, a proud Irish athlete and an extraordinary person.” Northern Ireland’s first minister, Michelle O’Neill, said Mageean demonstrated “extraordinary talent, determination and dedication.” She said: “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Ciara Mageean, and I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to her husband Tommy, her parents, family, friends and everyone who loved her.
From representing Ireland at two Olympic Games to winning European Championship gold in Rome in 2024, Ciara demonstrated extraordinary talent, determination and dedication. Throughout her illness, she showed a remarkable spirit and an incredible ability to find hope and joy in life, even in the most difficult circumstances. Her courage touched countless people and will leave a lasting legacy.
Ciara was one of our own, and the pride she brought to her community and beyond will never be forgotten. At this incredibly difficult time, I hope her family and loved ones can take some comfort from knowing just how deeply she was admired, respected and loved by so many people.” Deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly said: “I am so sorry to hear of the death of Ciara Mageean, at the age of 34 years. An outstanding athlete and ambassador for her sport, Ciara was born in Portaferry, County Down, and represented Northern Ireland and predominantly Ireland on the world stage.
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