Tullamore Harriers pays tribute to Phyllis Delaney

Tullamore Harriers AC has hailed the contribution of the late Phyllis Delaney to the club, and indeed athletics in general, following her recent passing.

Phyllis became involved with Tullamore Harriers back in 1973 and played a huge part in developing the juvenile section of the club.

The Phyllis Delaney Cup has been presented to the winning ladies' team in the Tullamore Harriers Half Marathon in recent years.

Tullamore Harriers Chairman Adrian Curley said: "Tullamore Harriers was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mrs Phyllis Delaney. Phyllis, along with her husband Jim, came to Tullamore in 1973 and quickly immersed themselves into our club. Phyllis, a charismatic and elegant lady, was the driving influence behind the initiative to establish a structured juvenile club in Tullamore Harriers. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and the juvenile section grew from strength to strength," said Adrian.

"Tullamore Harriers became a powerhouse of juvenile athletics. The increase in participation for young girls in particular during this time was extraordinary. Offaly, provincial and national titles were won by many of Phyllis’ protégés. Indeed, some of those recruits are still members to this very day. The structure put in place by Phyllis continued to grow over the years," continued Adrian.

Phyllis and Jim moved to live in Bray in the early 1980s. "In 2019, contact between the club and Phyllis was rekindled when, by way of recognition of her outstanding contribution to not only Tullamore Harriers, but athletics in general, the Phyllis Delaney Cup was introduced to our annual half marathon. This prestigious trophy was awarded to the winning ladies team," said Adrian.

"It was wonderful to have Phylis back in the club amongst old friends. It was as if time had stood still and 'Mrs Delaney' was back minding her flock. Phyllis was a very special lady, which many of us were privileged to know. The club extends our deepest condolences to Joseph Paul, James and the extended Delaney family. May Phyllis rest in eternal peace."

Phyllis Delaney (née McKenna) of Bray, Co. Wicklow died peacefully on November 9 in the loving care of the staff at The Royal Hospital, Donnybrook. Beloved wife of the late Jim, Phyllis will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her sons Joseph, Paul and James, daughters-in-law Pauline, Stephanie and Eva, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives and friends.

Funeral Mass was celebrated in St Fergal's Church, Ballywaltrim followed by interment in Springfield Cemetery, Killarney Road, Bray.