Irish Olympic gold medallist Ronnie Delany dies aged 91

James Cox

Irish Olympic gold medallist Ronnie Delany has died aged 91.

Delany won the Olympic 1,500 metres in Melbourne in 1956. No Irish athlete has claimed a gold medal in athletic since the Wicklow native's achievement. 

His famous win at Melbourne Cricket Ground came in front of 120,000 spectators. 

In a statement, the Olympic Federation of Ireland said: "Delany secured his place in sporting history when he won gold in the 1500m at the 1956 Summer Olympics. At just 21 years of age, he delivered one of the greatest performances in Irish Olympic history, producing a dramatic late surge to win in an Olympic record time of 3:41.2 and claim Ireland’s first Olympic track and field gold medal.

"Born in Arklow, Co. Wicklow and raised in Dublin, Delany emerged through Crusaders Athletic Club before continuing his career at Villanova University in the United States, where he became one of the most successful collegiate runners of his era, winning multiple NCAA titles. He also won bronze in the 1500m at the 1958 European Athletics Championships and enjoyed a remarkable run of success on the international circuit.

"Beyond his achievements on the track, Delany remained deeply committed to Irish sport and the Olympic movement throughout his life. He served as President of the Irish Olympians Association until recent years, continuing to champion the role of Olympians in Irish society and supporting the next generation of athletes."