Runners to don yellow in memory of Ellen Cassidy

Ellen passed away in 2025 at just 24 years old, after completing the half marathon, with organisers hoping to remember her this year via a series of tributes.

Due to her love for the event, Cork City Council have worked closely with the Cassidy family to find ways to remember her at this year’s marathon.

Ellen’s parents, Tom and Violet Cassidy said they were moved by the support that has been shown, and they couldn’t express how much it means to them.

“It ensures that Ellen’s spirit will remain part of this special event and the city she loved,” they said.

“We encourage everyone to wear yellow on the day - Ellen’s favourite colour and one as bright as she was.”

More than 200 of Ellen’s family and friends will take part in the half marathon and 10k to celebrate her life, wearing yellow, while banners and balloons in the same colour will be hung around the starting line.

Runners, walkers, volunteers, spectators and supporters are encouraged to take part in this tribute as well, with organisers asking the thousands of attendees to turn the city yellow in her honour.

As well as this tribute, Ellen’s name will feature inside a yellow heart on all 2026 finisher medals, which have a claddagh-inspired design while an inaugural Ellen Cassidy Spirit of Running Award has also been established.

The race has an expected attendance of 12,300 runners and 25,000 spectators.

Race Director Eamon Hayes said they wanted to make sure Ellen’s family lead the tributes, to ensure they were “rooted in warmth, dignity, and community”.

“So many people will wear yellow on race day in Ellen’s memory,” he said. “We hope these tributes will reflect the love and support surrounding her family and friends at this difficult time.”