Olympic middle-distance runner Ciaran O'Lionaird has been found dead at the age of 38 in Montreal, Canada. The Irish athlete, who trained alongside Mo Farah under coach Alberto Salazar before the 2012 London Olympic Games, was discovered on Tuesday morning.
Training with Mo Farah
O'Lionaird was part of Alberto Salazar's training group, which included four-time Olympic champion Mo Farah. He represented Ireland in the 1500 metres at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. The Cork-born runner also competed in the 2011 World Championships in Daegu, South Korea.
Career Highlights
O'Lionaird set personal bests of 3:34.46 for the 1500 metres and 3:53.79 for the mile. He was a three-time Irish national champion in the 1500 metres (2010, 2011, 2012) and also won the 800 metres title in 2011. After retiring from athletics, he worked as a coach and mentor.
Tributes Pour In
Irish athletics officials expressed shock and sadness at the news. Olympic Federation of Ireland CEO Peter Sherrard said, "Ciaran was a talented athlete and a wonderful person. Our thoughts are with his family and friends." Fellow Irish athletes took to social media to pay tribute, remembering his dedication and passion for the sport.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
