The parents of a young woman who died not long after she reached the finish line in the Cork City Half Marathon last year took part in the event today in her memory.
Ellen Cassidy, 24, of Carhoo, Old Mallow Road in Co Cork, became ill shortly after she completed the half marathon on 1 June 2025. She passed away at Cork University Hospital.
Her parents Tom and Violet held hands and raised them aloft as they crossed the finish line in the half marathon today.
More than 200 of Ellen's family and friends had come together to run and walk this year's half marathon and 10km events.
Twenty-four yellow balloons were released in memory of Ellen ahead of the half marathon start and a memorial bench has also been installed along the Marina Promenade in Cork city.
Ellen was prayed for at a special mass for marathon runners at St Peter and Paul’s Church in Cork this morning. Her family and friends were in attendance.
Ellen’s name was etched inside a yellow heart on all the 2026 finisher medals.
Ellen Cassidy Perpetual Cups were awarded for the Half Marathon, while an inaugural Ellen Cassidy Spirit of Running Award has also been established.
Her parents Tom and Violet say that the tributes being shown to Ellen mean the world to them following their loss.
"It ensures that Ellen’s spirit will remain part of this special event and the city she loved," they said.
Race Director Eamon Hayes said that the response from the running community has been "incredibly moving".
Ellen worked in cybersecurity for PVC having achieved a first class honours degree in Business Information systems from University College Cork (UCC).
She was an accomplished swimmer who represented Dolphin Swimming Club, UCC, Munster and Ireland and was also a talented pianist.
Her friend Katie Walshe said that Ellen loved running and the camaraderie of training.
"It was never just about the distance for Ellen it was about taking part, the fun, the laughter, the encouragement and being surrounded by the people she cared about most," she said.
