'Ellen swam through life with grace, strength and ion': Tributes paid to young woman who died after participating in Cork City Marathon

Tributes have been paid to 24-year-old Ellen Cassidy of Carhoo on the Mallow Road in Co Cork who died in hospital yesterday after becoming unwell at the finish line of the Cork City Marathon.

Ellen became ill at about 1pm yesterday after she had finished the half marathon in Cork city centre. 

She was tended to at the scene by medics before being transferred to Cork University Hospital by ambulance. She was pronounced dead a short time later.

Ellen was a champion swimmer who ed Dolphin Swimming Club in Mayfield on the northside of Cork city when she was nine years old. In a post on Facebook the club said that Ellen made a tremendous impression on everyone she met.

“Ellen swam through life with grace, strength and ion.

"Your smile and your drive will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to all the Cassidy’s family and friends.” 

Ellen was very much loved at the club not only for her talent in the water but for her kind and giving nature. Seven years ago when she represented Ireland in Luxembourg the club said that they “couldn’t be prouder” of her. 

They also described her as a “positive role model” for all their young swimmers.

Ellen had competed on behalf of her club, Munster and Ireland. She had represented Ireland at the European Youth Olympics and the European Junior Championships. She had also been on a UCC Emerging Talent Programme and represented Ireland at international schools level.

She was also a former student of St Angela’s College on Patrick’s Hill in the city.

'DEEP SADNESS'

Meanwhile, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork and Green Party councillor Honore Kamegni posted on X that it was with “deep sadness” that he heard of the ing of Ms Cassidy.

“She became unwell at the finish line on Patrick Street. Immediate medical attention was provided to her. My heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.” 

 In a statement the marathon organisers said that they were deeply saddened to confirm that a participant in the marathon had ed 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.” 

A number of road closures were in place to facilitate the running of the marathon. Ambulance crews were in situ at the marathon. Volunteers from the Cork City Civil Defence and Cork West Cork Civil Defence were also on hand as were of the Irish Red Cross.

More than 11,000 runners took part the Full Marathon, Half Marathon and 10K events.