Meet Louise Shanahan: Irish 800m Runner, ASICS Athlete, and Tokyo 2020 Olympian
Louise Shanahan: The Irish Olympian Balancing Athletics and Academics
Louise Shanahan, the Irish 800m runner, ASICS athlete, and Tokyo 2020 Olympian, is a force to be reckoned with both on and off the track. Born in Cork, Louise has spent the past four years living in Cambridge pursuing a PhD in Biophysics while also training for the Paris 2024 Olympics.
Louise’s earliest sporting memory dates back to when she was just 6 days old, attending her first race with her father. This early exposure to the world of athletics set the stage for her impressive career. Despite facing initial disappointment in not making her primary school’s running team, Louise’s determination led her to join her local athletic club, Leevale, where she has been running ever since.
As a role model for young women and girls interested in pursuing a career in athletics, Louise emphasizes the importance of hard work and discipline, highlighting that the only boundaries are the ones individuals place on themselves.
One of Louise’s proudest moments was fulfilling her childhood dream of becoming an Olympian. She also admires fellow Irish athlete Ciara Mageean for her achievements and humility in the sport.
Louise’s favorite sporting memory is breaking the Irish 800m national record and dipping below two minutes for the first time. This achievement came as a pleasant surprise and left her “running on clouds” for days after.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Louise balances her training with her academic endeavors, ensuring she starts her day with a good breakfast before embarking on her training sessions. She also makes time for her mental health by engaging in activities that bring her joy, such as baking or spending time with friends.
As Louise continues to chase her goal of running as fast as she possibly can, she remains a shining example of dedication, perseverance, and passion in both the world of athletics and academia. With her sights set on the Paris 2024 Olympics, Louise Shanahan is a name to watch in the world of Irish athletics.