Taoiseach leads tributes to Cork Olympian Ciarán Ó Lionáird 

The Cork and Ireland athletics community has been plunged into a state of shock following the sudden passing of Ciarán Ó Lionáird at the age of 38 with the Taoiseach among those who led the tributes today.

The Cork native was found dead in Vancouver, Canada on Tuesday morning.

Ó Lionáird was considered by many to be of the best Irish middle distance runners of his generation.

His many career highlights included representing Ireland in the 1500m at the 2012 London Olympics and securing a bronze medal in the men's 3000m at the 2013 European Indoor championships in Gothenburg.

Ó Lionáird also reached the 1500m final at the 2011 World Athletics Championships in Daegu.

Growing up in Toonsbridge just outside Macroom, his running talents were clear from an early age, as he claimed national medals for West Muskerry AC.

He later moved to another Cork club in Leevale AC, training under Der O’Donovan and subsequently progressing into a world class junior athlete.

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin told The Echo:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ciarán Ó Lionáird. A great sporting talent who represented Ireland at the Olympics and many international competitions. Ciarán contributed so much to Irish athletics.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Ciarán’s family and friends at this difficult time."

A spokesperson for Leevale AC said:

“Ciarán was an exceptional athlete who represented his club, county and country with distinction, but he was equally valued as a wonderful clubman, teammate and friend.

“His achievements on the track inspired many, while his humility, warmth and generosity left a lasting impression on all who knew him.”