The parents of a young woman who died after completing the Cork City Half Marathon last year crossed the finish line of this year's event hand-in-hand as hundreds gathered to honour her memory.
Ellen Cassidy, 24, from Carhoo on Cork's Old Mallow Road, became ill shortly after finishing the half marathon on 1 June 2025. She was taken to Cork University Hospital, where she later died.
One year on, Ellen's family, friends and the wider running community came together to celebrate her life during the 2026 Cork City Marathon events.
Her parents, Tom and Violet Cassidy, raised their joined hands as they crossed the finish line, while more than 200 family members and friends took part in the half marathon and 10km races in tribute to Ellen.
Ahead of the start of the half marathon, 24 yellow balloons were released in her memory. A memorial bench has also been installed along Marina Promenade in Cork city, a lasting tribute to the young woman whose death deeply affected the local community.
Ellen was also remembered during a special Mass for marathon runners at St Peter and Paul's Church in Cork, attended by her family and friends.
Organisers ensured her memory remained part of the event she loved. Ellen's name was engraved inside a yellow heart on all 2026 finisher medals, while Ellen Cassidy Perpetual Cups were awarded as part of the half marathon competition. An inaugural Ellen Cassidy Spirit of Running Award was also introduced.
In a statement, her parents said the tributes meant a great deal to them.
“It ensures that Ellen's spirit will remain part of this special event and the city she loved,” they said.
Race Director Eamon Hayes described the response from runners and supporters as “incredibly moving”.
Ellen was well known for her achievements both in sport and academics. She worked in cybersecurity for PVC after graduating from University College Cork with a first-class honours degree in Business Information Systems.
An accomplished swimmer, she represented Dolphin Swimming Club, UCC, Munster and Ireland during her sporting career. She was also a talented pianist.
Friend Katie Walshe said Ellen's passion for running extended far beyond competition.
“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.
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On the same day, across the Emerald Isle, the 44th Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon took place with 30,000 women taking to the streets of Dublin.
Now in its 44th year, the event continues to attract participants from across Ireland and beyond, and remains one of the largest all-female events of its kind in the world.
This year's theme, ‘Best Time Ever’, encouraged participants to define their own experience- whether aiming for a personal best, walking with friends, fundraising, or completing a personal challenge.
Participants ranged in age from 14 – 92, reflecting the wide appeal of the event. Organisers have also noted increased participation among younger women in recent years, linked to the growth of community and social running groups.
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The 2026 Vhi Women's Mini Marathon was won by Chaltu Dida from DSD A.C. in a time of 31:41, making Dida the first Ethiopian woman to win the Vhi Women’s Mini Marathon. Dida is supported by Citizen Watch, the event's official timing partner.
Second across the finish line was Sorcha Nic Dhomhnaill from Limerick Country Club A.C. in a time of 32:44 followed by her twin sister Íde Nic Dhomhnaill from West Limerick A.C. in 33:58.
Greta Streimiktye from UCD A.C. claimed first place in the Visually Impaired category with a time of 36:03.
