A 24 year old woman who died at the Cork City Marathon yesterday has been named.
Ellen Cassidy from the Old Mallow Road, who was a graduate of UCC, became unwell at the event's finish line at about 1pm on Patrick Street.
She was treated by emergency services on the scene, before being transferred to Cork University Hospital by ambulance.
She was pronounced dead a short time later.
Ms Cassidy was a champion swimmer who joined 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 Ms Cassidy made a tremendous impression on everyone she met.
"Ellen swam through life with grace, strength and passion.
"Your smile and your drive will never be forgotten. Our deepest condolences to all the Cassidy's family and friends."
Ms Cassidy 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.
Ms Cassidy 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.
Meanwhile, Deputy Lord Mayor of Cork and Green Party councillor Honore Kamegni expressed his "deep sadness" on X and sent condolences to Ellen's family.
In a statement, the marathon organisers said that they were deeply saddened to confirm that a participant in the marathon had passed 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."
