Irish middle-distance runner Ciara Mageean has died at the age of 34, just weeks after marrying her long-time partner Thomas Moran. She passed away at 6.30am on Sunday, November 1, surrounded by her family and friends, following a battle with stage four bowel cancer.
Social media announcement
A statement posted on her social media 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. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam."
Mageean was one of Ireland's most celebrated middle-distance runners, having represented her country at two Olympic Games, as well as claiming European gold and Commonwealth silver in the 1500m.
Career and diagnosis
She was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer in May 2025 at the age of 33. Earlier this month she marked her wedding to Thomas Moran at Darver Castle in County Louth. The couple first crossed paths as students at University College Dublin.
Along with her European gold in 2024, she won European bronze in 2016, silver in 2022 and she also took silver in the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Mageean holds Irish records in the 800m (1:58.51), 1000m (2:31.06), 1500m (3:55.87) and mile (4:14.58).
Tributes
An overwhelming wave of tributes has poured in following Ciara's passing, with those who knew her describing her as "an inspiration for all ages" who was an "incredible athlete and incredible person".
Athletics Ireland said: "Ciara was a much-loved and inspirational figure who touched the lives of so many. 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.
