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08 Oct 2025
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08 Oct 2025
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Kate O'Connor with her silver and bronze medals. Photo by Ulster University
Dundalk heptathlete, Kate O’Connor, was given a hero’s welcome at Ulster University for her string of achievements on the international stage.
The event celebrated her landmark gold medal at the World University Games in Germany earlier this summer and her remarkable season, which saw her add a European bronze and a World silver to her growing collection of medals, all while completing her Master’s in Communications and Public Relations at Ulster.
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Speaking at the event, O'Connor said, “It is really special to be here today with my friends and family, coaches, and the Ulster University community.
“Winning gold at the World University Games was an unforgettable moment, but it is the support network around me that makes it possible to excel, both on the track and while completing my degree.
“I am incredibly proud to represent Ulster University and Irish athletics on the world stage. It has been an incredible year, and I am looking forward to what is next. My focus now is on building on these performances and continuing to improve.
“Celebrations like today mean so much because they bring together the people who have supported me every step of the way, and I hope that my journey can continue to inspire and encourage others to follow their own ambitions.”
Ulster University professor, Cathy Gormley-Hennan, added, “It is a real pleasure to welcome Kate’s family, coaches, and supporters to Ulster University as we celebrate an exceptional young woman who has made us all incredibly proud.
“In the space of one season, she has become the first Irish woman to win multi-event gold at the World University Games, broken her own national record, and added European and World Championship medals to her name.
“To achieve all of this while completing her degree here at Ulster is a testament to her dedication, focus, and resilience, and she stands as an inspiration to fellow students, aspiring athletes, and all who have followed her journey.
“She is a shining example of the amazing student athletes in our Performance Sport Scholarship Programme.”
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