Portaferry 'devastated' at Ciara Mageean's passing

Ireland's Ciara Mageean celebrates after qualifying for the World Athletics Championships 1500m final in Doha. ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy.

Portaferry GAC has paid a heartfelt tribute to Irish Olympian and European champion runner Ciara Mageean who has passed away at the age of just 34.

Ciara revealed in July 2025 that she had been diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer and lost her battle with the illness on Sunday morning. She hailed from a well-known GAA family in the Down hurling stronghold. Along with her siblings, she wore the club colours, while her father Chris was part of the Down team that famously relegated reigning All-Ireland champions Kilkenny from Division 1 of the Allianz League in 1993.

Ciara's mother Catherine was also a talented camogie player in her youth. The much-loved athlete, who recently married her long-term partner Thomas Moran, received an incredible reception when she took to the pitch at Croke Park during half-time in this year's All-Ireland SHC final.

Under the heading 'A farewell to Portaferry’s Finest', the tribute from Ciara's beloved GAA club read: "The committee, members and players of St. Patrick’s GAC, Portaferry are devastated on the passing of our very own Ciara Mageean.

"From her early days proudly playing camogie in the blue and gold of Portaferry to shining her light on the athletics track proudly representing Ireland on the biggest sporting stages of the world. She brought so much joy and excitement to everyone across Ireland but more so to everyone in our small little town with all her success.

"In recent times, Ciara showed us a very different type of strength. Throughout her illness, she demonstrated immense courage and resilience, inspiring each and every one of us. Ciara reminded us of the importance of hope and making the most of every moment. Her strength, courage and positivity will leave a lasting impression on every who followed her journey.

"Ciara’s achievements have truly inspired a generation in all aspects of life. But, it was her humility, warmth and the genuine connection she had to Portaferry, our club and our community that made her so special. She showed all of us here in Portaferry that you can dream big, achieve extraordinary things whilst never forgetting where you came from.

"Our hearts are heavy as we remember and pay tribute to Ciara. Although the rest of the world will remember Ciara for her incredible achievements on the athletics track, for all of us here in Portaferry, she will always be one of our own.

"Portaferry always had a special place in Ciara’s heart and she will always have a special place in the hearts of everyone in Portaferry. Ciara was a girl who wore her heart on her sleeve, who never ever forgot her roots and heritage and proudly showed her love for Portaferry which she echoed around the world at the biggest stage. A fighter to the very end.

"There is a light that never goes out, and Ciara’s light will always shine with all of us here in Portaferry.

"We offer our sincere heartfelt condolences to Ciara’s husband Tommy, her parents Catherine and Chris, and to her siblings Máire, Brendan and Nuala on this very difficult time.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ciara’s entire family, friends and the wider Mageean and Mason family circle through this time. Our club will always be open to all of you.

"Once a Port, Always a Port."