Ciaran O'Lionard Retires

El Caballo

He's had it tough with injuries over the years and decided to take an "extended break" from athletics after failing to gain an Olympic Q time. Sad to see at only 28 years old with some serious runs and potential if his body could hold up.

http://m.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/athletics/i-dont-like-the-word-retirement-but-i-have-to-let-running-find-me-again-lionird-34854001.html

KielyUnusual

That's very disappointing. It seemed there for a bit that he was on the road back to the level of running that he is capable of but he's had so many setbacks.

Would have loved to have seen what he would have achieved if he had maintained injury free for any length of time but I guess that's part of the challenge of competing at the very top. You have to be right on the edge of what your body is capable and sometimes you are going to go over.

Hope he gets on well in his new career. Definitely seems mad in to the auld runners judging by his Twitter profile.

ultrapercy

It's very tough on him. His career was very up and down and he never got a good run. It must be very frustrating for him to put it mildly. Paul Robinson won't be in Rio either by the looks of it. It all appeared so positive for them 2 years ago but wasn't to be. Luck plays a huge part in sport at that level.

vinbo1

Thanks for posting. Hadn't seen this report. Sad news - wish him well for the future.

youngrun

Great talent . Shame hes calling it a day if its certain. Plenty of great days and results for COL.

http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/athletics-back-to-school-for-euro-champs-26606408.html
This was some squad, they havent really fulfilled potential since , is there still time ?