World Masters champion athlete is named June's Cork Person of the Month

A World Masters champion athlete has been announced as the Cork Person of the Month for June 2025.

Michael Kiely, an 80-year-old runner from Shanballymore in North Cork, has been recognised as Cork Person of the Month for his gold medal runs at the World Masters Indoor Championships in Gainesville, Florida, earlier this year.

Mr Kiely secured gold in both the over-80s 800m and 1500m events, with times of 3:09:35 and 6:51:00, respectively.

His path to gold was made possible by a unique training regime, which saw him battle challenging weather conditions and persistent rabbit intrusions, as he meticulously crafted a 400-metre track in a field near his home.

Mr Kiely credits his success to a disciplined training regimen, which includes hill workouts and intense short repetitions.

His regimen is also complemented by a celiac-friendly diet of Brazil nuts, bananas, gluten-free toast, and cheese.

A relative latecomer to athletics, only taking up running at the age of 36, Mr Kiely boasts a history of impressive accomplishments, including previous World Masters titles in the 800m and 1500m events.

The octogenarian is also a staunch advocate for lifelong fitness, saying that “whether it be running, walking, cycling or swimming, any and all exercise plays a role in maintaining your health and fitness."

Cork Person of the Month Awards organiser Manus O’Callaghan said that Mr Kiely’s story was a profound inspiration.

“The unwavering dedication illustrated by Michael’s incredible achievements are a pure embodiment of the Cork spirit,” said Mr O’Callaghan.

“His compelling story stands testament to the enduring power of perseverance and the endless potential we retain across all stages of life."

Mr Kiely’s name will now go forward alongside the other monthly winners for possible selection as Cork Person of the Year at the Annual Gala Awards Lunch in January 2026.

This year's previous monthly winners, who will join Mr Kiely at the Annual Gala Awards next year, include Sheena Crowley of Crowley's Music Centre, who was awarded in January; Joe Byrne of Joseph’s Hair Salon, who was awarded in February; Tom Butler of Ballincollig Tidy Towns, who was awarded in March; Professor Gary Murphy of DCU’s School of Law and Government, who was awarded in April; and Patrick Coughlan of Cork MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service), who was awarded in May.

For more information on the Cork Person of the Month and Cork Person of the Year awards visit: https://www.corkpersonoftheyear.ie/.

The general public is further invited to nominate someone for the July Cork Person of the Month award by emailing nominations@corkpersonofthemonth.ie.