'Inspiration to so many' - Northern Ireland Olympian and European champion Ciara Mageean dies aged 34 after cancer battle
Portaferry’s two-time Olympian and European athletics champion Ciara Mageean will be remembered as an “inspiration to so many” following her death aged 34 after a battle with cancer.
Ciara revealed last July she had been diagnosed with cancer and a statement posted across her social media on Sunday morning read: "At 6.30am this morning, Ciara lost her battle with cancer surrounded by her loved ones.
"A beloved daughter, sister, wife, friend and inspiration to so many, she will be deeply missed."
Career highlights included appearances for Team Ireland at Olympic Games in 2016 and 2020, with a 2024 European Championships 1,500m gold won in Italy a major moment.
She also won silver for Northern Ireland at the 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Athletics Ireland issued a statement in tribute highlighting “Ciara was a much-loved and inspirational figure who touched the lives of so many”.
It continued: “Her courage, warmth and spirit will leave a lasting legacy. The thoughts and heartfelt condolences of everyone at Athletics Ireland are with Ciara’s family, friends and loved ones at this incredibly difficult time. May she rest in peace.”