Tullamore resident John Cronin steps down as President of Athletics Ireland

Tullamore resident John Cronin has stepped down from his tenure as President of Athletics Ireland.

On Saturday, April 26, John's successor Brid Golden was elected as the new President of Athletics Ireland.

John has been dedicated to athletics at every level throughout his lifetime, and served as a former Chairperson of Tullamore Harriers for many years.

In recognition of his outstanding service, John was honoured with Life Presidency of Offaly Athletics in 2020 and received the Offaly Sports Partnership’s “Lifetime Contribution to Sport” award in 2016.

Over more than two decades, John made a significant impact within Athletics Ireland, chairing both the Technical and Competition Committees.

He was elected President of Athletics Ireland in 2021 and re-elected in 2023. Prior to his presidency, he served as Deputy President and Chair of Competition from 2016 to 2021, and as the Leinster representative from 2012 to 2016, marking 13 years of service on the Board.

In a statement shared online, Tullamore Harriers said: "Under John’s leadership, Athletics Ireland not only recovered strongly from the pandemic but also reached record membership levels of 70,000, achieved 29 international medals, advanced it's digitalisation strategy, and implemented major governance reforms.

"Internationally, John's reputation is equally distinguished. He became a European International Technical Official in 2005 and, in 2013, was promoted to the global stage as an IAAF International Technical Official. In 2015, he was elected to the IAAF Technical Committee and has officiated at the highest levels, including European Championships and the Tokyo and Paris Olympics.

"Tullamore Harriers is extremely proud of John’s remarkable achievements and deeply grateful for his invaluable support and unwavering dedication over the years. We wish him every success in his future endeavours and congratulate Brid on her appointment as President."