Olympian Ciarán O'Lionáird set out to conquer the world, funeral hears

Locals in Inchigeela, Co Cork, formed a guard of honour outside their parish church on Wednesday afternoon at the conclusion of the funeral mass of Olympian Ciarán Ó Lionáird, who was remembered for his talent, work ethic, endless curiosity, and deeply compassionate nature.

Ó Lionáird died on June 9th last in British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. The 38-year-old former European Championship medallist represented Ireland in the 1500 metres at the London Olympics in 2012.

In 2013, he won a bronze medal in the Men's 3,000 metres at the European Indoor Championships. He scooped the Irish 1,500 metre title in Santry in Dublin in 2014. Persistent Achilles injuries brought his elite career to a close in 2016.

His brother Cathal told mourners at the Church of St Finbarr and the Holy Angels that the athlete lived his life with “uncommon intensity and care.”

“He sought meaning in people, places and experiences and shared what he found through his writing, music, creativity and friendships. He expressed himself with authenticity in all things.

"Those fortunate enough to know him will remember his generosity, his laughter, his ability to bring people together and the unmistakable energy he carried into every room and into every conversation."

He said that the raw talent of his late brother was evident from an early age.

“Ciarán had to be constantly on the move from running behind the sheep on our family farm as fast as he could to running around any track or field he could find from Ireland to the world's stage. This was all done at his own blistering pace and with his own distinctive style.”

He also remarked on the generosity of spirit of his brother -- not only to his family but to up and coming athletes.

Cathal also spoke of a