Athlone's Rebecca to run Dublin Marathon in memory of close friend

People run marathons for all sorts of reasons with many having a special cause to keep them going through the gruelling 26.2 miles. And when young Athlone woman Rebecca Lowe takes on her first marathon on Sunday week, she will feel the presence of her close friend Ellen Cassidy every step of the way.

Rebecca is running the Dublin Marathon on Sunday, October 26 in memory of the late Ellen, who died suddenly after running the Cork City Half Marathon on June 1 of this year. The 24-year-old Cork native became unwell at the finish line and subsequently passed away in Cork University Hospital.

A daughter of Vi and Tom Cassidy, Ellen is dearly missed by all her family, including sister Mary, brother Charlie, grandparents Joan, Billy and Tom, and her boyfriend, Rob.

Any funds raised by Rebecca will go to the Cassidy family who can decide how to use the funds in order can make the greatest impact in Ellen’s name.

Rebecca met Ellen several years ago through their shared excellence in swimming, with both of them representing Ireland in the pool.

A daughter of Deirdre and David Lowe, Rebecca has two sisters, Sophie and Erika, and one brother Harry. From Moydrum, Athlone, Rebecca is currently studying for a master's degree in teaching in University College Dublin, and she has represented UCD in swimming.

The Lowe family is well known for their keen involvement in local sport with strong connections to Athlone Hockey Club, Athlone Swimming Club, Garrycastle GAA and Buccaneers RFC, in addition to equestrian activities over the years. Those who previously trained with the Moate Athlone Running Group will also remember the three Lowe sisters adding a bit of youth to training sessions.

The idea of doing something special in memory of Ellen was in Rebecca's thoughts when she spent the summer in the USA. And so, over the last number of weeks, Rebecca has swapped her swimming costume for her running gear.

Although Rebecca is no stranger to pushing herself to the limit in training, endurance running is a different challenge and she only completed her first half marathon in Kildare last month.

Rebecca has set up a GoFundMe page - https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-my-beloved-friend-ellen-cassidy - where people can support her marathon efforts for the Cassidy family.

"On October 26, I’ll be running the Dublin Marathon in memory of my dear friend, Ellen Cassidy, who heartbreakingly passed away on the 1st of June this year," said Rebecca.

"It’s hard to put into words just how special Ellen was – she was truly one of a kind. Ellen was kind-hearted, vibrant, hilarious, and deeply gifted. She had that rare ability to light up any room she walked into, and her energy was infectious. Whether it was a training session, a team trip, or just a regular day – if Ellen was there, you felt it. To be her friend was a gift I’ll carry with me forever.

"We shared so many unforgettable moments over the years – from representing Ireland together on the national swim team, to training camps abroad, to international trips filled with laughter, memories and plenty of mischief," she continued.

Describing Ellen as someone who was "always up for a laugh, always the spark behind the fun", Rebecca said: "She was incredibly talented and driven – both in and out of the pool – but it was her heart and her humour that made her unforgettable. She brought people together, lifted spirits, and made everyone around her feel special. She had a quick wit, a brilliant mind, and a warmth that made you feel instantly at ease.

"Running this marathon is my way of honouring Ellen – her life, her light, and her legacy. I know she’ll be with me every step of the way, just like she always was – cheering, laughing, and probably telling me to pick up the pace!

"All funds raised will go directly to the Cassidy family, who will decide where it can make the greatest impact in Ellen’s name. This one’s for you, Ellen. Forever part of the team. Forever in our hearts," added Rebecca, also expressing gratitude for any support received.