Phil Healy announces retirement from athletics
Michael Bolton
Two-time Olympian and European relay medal winner Phil Healy has announced her retirement from international athletics at the age of 31.
The Cork native won 17 national senior titles and previously held the Irish 100 and 200 metre sprint records.
Healy made history in 2018 by becoming the first Irish athlete in over 40 years to hold both the national 100m and 200m records simultaneously, retaining them for several years.
She represented Team Ireland at the Olympics twice, narrowly missing out on a bronze medal in the 4 x 400 metre relay at the 2024 Paris Games.
That same year, she also won European Championship silver in that category, alongside Sophie Becker, Rhasidat Adeleke and Sharlene Mawdsley.
Healy has endured some injury and illness in recent years, including a thyroid issue know as Hashimoto’s disease, which severely restricted her training and recovery.
“It has been the greatest honour and privilege to represent Ireland over the past 14 consecutive years,” said Healy. “Athletics has given me memories that I will cherish forever, friendships that will last a lifetime, and opportunities I could only have dreamed of as a young girl joining Bandon AC.
“I feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced so many special moments throughout my career.
"From breaking Irish records and winning national titles to becoming a two-time Olympian, competing in Olympic finals and standing on a European podium with my relay team-mates, I have been lucky enough to achieve more than I ever imagined.
“Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with and learning from some truly remarkable people. No athlete achieves success alone, and I am deeply thankful to everyone who has been part of my journey.
"In particular, my family, friends, my coach Shane McCormack and his family have played an invaluable role in my development and success.
“While my competitive career may be ending, my connection to sport will always remain strong. I look forward to supporting my team-mates and watching athletics continue to thrive and grow both in Ireland and beyond.”
