Friends of Cork woman who died after Cork City Marathon to honour her at fitness event
Ellen Cassidy, aged 24, from Carhoo, in the Old Mallow Road in Co Cork died on June 1, 2025.
Friends of a young woman who fell ill close to the finish line at the Cork City Marathon last year and subsequently died are set to take part in a challenging fitness event this weekend in her memory.
Ellen Cassidy, aged 24, from Carhoo, in the Old Mallow Road in Co Cork died on June 1, 2025. An elite swimmer, she fell ill near the marathon finish line at St Patrick’s Street.
She received medical attention but was pronounced dead at Cork University Hospital. Sixteen of her friends are due to participate in the Alpha Sim at Páirc Uí Chaoimh in Cork tomorrow in order to honour Ellen.
The event is Ireland's biggest HYROX simulator, combining running with functional workout stations. Her friend Katie Walshe says they want to celebrate a life that meant so much to them all.
Ms Walshe said Ellen had an unbelievable passion for sport and exercise. “It was part of who she was.
"In April (2025), she completed a marathon in Milan, an achievement she was so proud of, and she was also an avid swimmer who competed for Ireland, something that spoke so deeply to her dedication and love for sport.
"She thrived on challenge, community, and movement, and she inspired everyone around her to be better, stronger, and kinder.
"Just two days before her passing, Ellen and I bought tickets to compete together in the September Alpha Sim. It was something she had always wanted to compete in and complete, and she was so excited to take it on.
"Knowing that makes this event even more meaningful, as we now compete in her memory and carry her spirit with us. All of us are competing for Ellen, and all of us holding her close in our hearts.”
Ms Walshe said Ellen was the brightest light in the lives of her friends and family.
“She brought laughter, warmth and positivity wherever she went, and she is missed more deeply than words can ever express.”
Her friends have raised over €15,000 on a GoFundMe page.
The proceeds will be given to Ellen's family to “choose how best to use the funds in a way that truly honours Ellen.”
Ellen worked in cybersecurity for PWC, having achieved a first class honours degree in Business Information systems from UCC. She was joint chairperson of the UCC Swimming Club.
A champion swimmer, she joined Dolphin Swimming Club on the northside of Cork City when she was nine years old and 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. Ellen was also a pianist who studied at the Cork School of Music.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
