TWO-time Olympian and record-breaking athlete Ciara Mageean has spoken of her pride at receiving an Honorary Doctorate from the Ulster University, recently names the Times Higher Education University of the Year.
Portaferry native and Irish middle-distance record holder Ciara accepted the Honorary Doctorate for her outstanding contribution to sport as she closes out a hugely successful year as the reigning European 1500m Champion, adding the 2024 gold medal to her silver from 2022 and bronze from 2016 at the European Athletics Championships. A two-time Olympian, she has set all Irish middle-distance records, including the 800m, 1000m, 1500m, and the Mile.
Injury, however, prevented her from competing at the summer Games in Paris.
On receiving news her Honorary Doctorate, Ciara said: “It is an immense honour to receive this Honorary Doctorate from Ulster University. As an athlete, I’ve always believed in pushing the limits of what’s possible, but this recognition is a reminder that success is not only about personal achievement – it’s also about the support of those who help you along the way.
“I am proud to represent my country each time I compete on the track, and I thank all of those who have supported me this year and right throughout my career. Thank you also to Ulster University and congratulations to the upcoming graduates who will no doubt become the next generation of athletes and leaders to emerge from Ireland.”
Also swapping her sporting gear for a gown this December will be Leona Maguire, County Cavan golfer and two-time LPGA tour winner, who has in recent years cemented her position among golf’s elite.
Ranked world No. 1 for a record 135 weeks, Leona was crowned Ladies British Open Amateur Champion in 2017 and has competed in three Olympic Games. She became the first Irish golfer to win an LPGA event in 2022, claimed her second victory at the 2023 Meijer LPGA Classic and breaking into the world’s top 10 rankings.
A key figure in multiple Solheim Cup victories for Team Europe, Leona has built a global reputation and prominence as one of golf’s brightest talents.
