Over 200 runners to take on Cork City Marathon in memory of Ellen

More than 200 people will take part in this months Cork City Marathon in memory of Ellen Cassidy, who tragically passed away after taking part in last year’s event.

Ahead of the marathon a GoFundMe page set up in her name has raised more than €9,400 to raise funds for charities “close to Ellen’s heart”.

Ms Cassidy, who was 24-years-old, became ill after completing the half marathon last June, and later died at Cork University Hospital.

Her family and friends remembered Ellen as a determined individual, who was a seasoned marathon runner and an avid swimmer, having been a member of the Dolphin Swimming Club and represented Ireland at the European Youth Olympics and European Junior Championships.

This year’s event, on May 31, will pay tribute to Ms Cassidy, with her name inscribed inside a yellow heart on the finisher medals for the marathon, half-marathon, and 10km race.

A message on the GoFundMe page, created by Ellen’s friend, Katie Walshe, says: ‘This year, on May 31, 2026, something incredibly special is happening.

“Over 222 of her family, friends, work colleagues, and fellow runners are coming together to run in the Cork city full marathon, half, and 10K, all in Ellen’s honour. Many of us have never run a marathon before, but that doesn’t matter…. We are doing this together for Ellen,” wrote Ms Walshe

“We’re running for her spirit, her kindness, her energy, and the way she brought people together so effortlessly. We’re running because she would have been right there with us, motivating each one of us and smiling the whole way.”

Charities that will receive donations include CRY Ireland, Down Syndrome Cork/Field of Dreams, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Pieta House, St John’s Ambulance, Focus Ireland, and Marymount hospice.

“We would also love to see as many people as possible wearing yellow on the day, as a simple but powerful way to show your support and stand with us in remembering Ellen.”

€9,426 has been raised via the GoFundMe page, or 40% of the €20,000 target.

“Every donation no matter how big or small means so much, not just in what it contributes, but in helping us celebrate the incredible person Ellen Cassidy was,” wrote Ms Walshe.

For more search ‘Cork City Marathon 2026 - In Memory of Ellen Cassidy’ on gofundme.com.