Athletics Ireland is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our esteemed Life Vice President Maeve Kyle RIP, aged 96, a true pioneer of Irish sport and one of our most iconic and inspirational athletes.
A native of Kilkenny, Maeve Kyle broke new ground for women in Irish athletics. She made history as Ireland’s first female Olympian in track and field, representing the country with distinction at the Melbourne 1956, Rome 1960, and Tokyo 1964 Olympic Games. At the Tokyo Games, she reached the semifinals in both the 400m and 800m. Maeve went on to win a bronze medal in the 400m at the 1966 European Indoor Championships in Dortmund and continued to compete with distinction in the Masters category, winning world titles and setting world records. Her presence on the international stage opened doors for countless others, and it was her courage, determination, and dignity on and off the track that truly set her apart.
A gifted multi-sport athlete, Maeve also played international hockey for Ireland, earning 58 caps, and competed in tennis, swimming, sailing, and cricket. She later became a renowned coach, working alongside her beloved late husband, Sean, to help shape generations of Irish athletes including their daughter Shauna. Maeve completed her involvement in a fourth Olympic Games by serving as coach to the Irish track and field team at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Her contribution to athletics spanned decades, from her ground-breaking career as a competitor to her roles as a coach, mentor, administrator, official, and advocate for women in sport and coaching structures.
Among her many honours, Maeve was awarded the European Coaches Association Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006. She received a prestigious honorary doctorate from the University of Ulster, famously delivering her acceptance speech to a packed Waterfront Hall in Belfast without referring to notes. She was also appointed an OBE for her services to sport. In 2007, Athletics Ireland recognised Maeve and Sean with the Lifetime Achievement Award at our inaugural National Athletics Awards.
Maeve’s contribution to Irish athletics, including her coaching work with Ballymena & Antrim AC and her unwavering support for emerging athletes in Northern Ireland and beyond, has left an indelible mark on our sport.
Maeve Kyle was more than a legend; she was a torchbearer who lit the path for those who followed. Her legacy lives on in the athletes she inspired and the standards she set.
On behalf of the athletics community across Ireland, Athletics Ireland extend our heartfelt condolences to her daughter Shauna, her granddaughter Indy, to the extended Kyle and Shankey families, her many friends, and all those whose lives she touched through her extraordinary career and enduring legacy.
