Olympic medallist Mona McSharry has led the tributes to former Irish swimming champion Ellen Cassidy, who died after completing the Cork half-marathon on Sunday.
The 24-year-old collapsed shortly after finishing the race in Cork City and was rushed to Cork University Hospital, where she was later pronounced dead. Her sudden passing has left the Irish sporting community in shock.
Cassidy, who began swimming with the Dolphin Swimming Club in Mayfield at just nine years old, had an illustrious youth career. She proudly represented Ireland at both the European Youth Olympics and European Junior Championships, earning respect and admiration in the competitive swimming world.
Her death has prompted an outpouring of grief from former teammates, her university, and public figures. UCC’s Emerging Talent Programme, of which Cassidy was a member, released a heartfelt tribute that was later shared by McSharry on Instagram.
“In loving memory of Ellen Cassidy. It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden passing of our dear friend, teammate and former co-captain Ellen Cassidy,” the tribute read.
“Ellen was so much more than just a swimmer — she was the heart of it. From her early days as treasurer to her time as co-captain, she brought unmatched energy, dedication and care to everything she did.”
The statement highlighted Ellen’s warmth and ability to make others feel valued. “She had the brightest smile, the warmest hello and the effortless way of making everyone feel seen,” it said. “She never let anyone feel like a stranger.”
Cassidy graduated from University College Cork earlier this year. Her legacy, teammates said, would endure in every practice and every race. “Her absence is felt deeply, but her spirit will always be a part of this team.”
The club concluded, “We love you, Ellen. You will always be with us, in every laugh on deck and in our hearts. Rest in peace, Ellen Cassidy.”
Another Tragedy Hits Irish Community Abroad
In a separate tragedy just a week earlier, another young Irish woman, Olivia Tuohy, died while taking part in the Edinburgh Half Marathon.
Tuohy, a student at Queen Margaret University in Scotland, passed away on May 25. Her family, from Ennis, Co Clare, described her as a “bright and beautiful spirit” in a tribute that captured the widespread sorrow felt both in Ireland and Edinburgh.
“Olivia’s bubbly personality and kind heart will be deeply missed by all who knew her,” her family said. She is survived by her parents, Kieran and Liz, brother Stephen, her partner Michael, and many extended family members and friends.
Clare’s ladies football team, which Tuohy was involved with, described her as someone whose “kindness, warmth, and vibrant spirit touched so many lives on and off the football field.”
The Banner Ladies football club also honoured her memory, saying: “We wish to express our sadness at the passing of our friend and former teammate, Olivia Tuohy. May her gentle soul rest in peace.”
As a mark of respect, a minute’s silence was observed at all GAA games in Clare on Sunday.
Both deaths have sent shockwaves through communities north and south of the Irish Sea, prompting reflections on the passion and dedication of two young women whose lives ended far too soon.
