'A true inspiration': Olympian Mary Peters leads tributes to tragic athletics star Ciara Mageean
Mary Peters has led tributes to her tragic fellow Olympian Ciara Mageean, after the athletics star’s passing at just 34 years old.
The inspirational middle-distance runner died today, several months after a cancer diagnosis. She had married her husband less than three weeks ago.
Lady Peters first met Ciara in 2007, she revealed; then a teenage up-and-comer, she received support from a sports fund charity the Olympic champion established, the Mary Peters Trust.
“Over the years I’ve had the pleasure of watching her progress, achieve amazing goals, win incredible races and become a true inspiration to so many,” she told the News Letter.
“In 2010 Ciara was the first winner of the trust’s unique ‘Dream Award’ bursary. She very much appreciated the support and went on to give back to the Mary Peters Trust by attending and speaking at many of our fundraising events, thereby supporting and encouraging young up and coming athletes.
"Ciara was a true ambassador for the trust, and we were proud to present her with a special International Recognition Award in 2023.
“My thoughts are with Ciara’s husband and all her family and friends of whom she had so many. Ciara’s influence and legacy will continue to inspire people of all ages within sport and outside it for many years to come.”
Deputy first minister Emma Little-Pengelly described the 34-year-old as “an outstanding athlete and ambassador for her sport” as well as “an inspiration to many”.
Said the DUP politician: “She spoke with such honesty and bravery about the health battles she subsequently faced.
“I know so many from right across Northern Ireland were deeply proud and inspired by Ciara.
“My deepest condolences to her family, teammates and friends, and her husband to whom she had so recently married.”
In a statement, Athletics Northern Ireland sent the organisation’s condolences to Ciara’s family and friends.
Describing her as one of the province’s “most celebrated athletes and a much-loved member of our community”, the body stated: “Her dedication, determination and pride inspired countless young athletes and showed what can be achieved through commitment and belief.”