Achievement of Tipperary Olympian JJ 'Jack' Ryan at the Paris Olympics is recalled 100 years on

This Friday July 26th sees the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games in Paris, France and the date also marks the 100th Anniversary that JJ Ryan represented Ireland in Cross Country in Paris in 1924 in what would be the last time cross country running would be an event at the Games.

Tipperary native JJ was also selected to run in the 10,000m on the track where he ran alongside race winner Ville Ritola of Finland who set a world record at the time of 30:23, JJ himself was in the running in third place until the 8th lap where he got accidently spiked by another athletes shoe and had to withdraw from the race, the injury also prevented him from competing in the steeplechase.

JJ 'Jack' Ryan as he was known, who was born in Ballyglasheen, Kilfeacle, County Tipperary on the 23rd of February 1893. He was remembered by his grandchild Catriona Sheehan, her son and great grandson Sean who ran our annual 5k road race in Littleton in memory of him and his achievements.

His daughter Eileen lives in Two Mile Borris where his memory is kept alive in Corcoran's Pub owned by her son Vincent & daughter in law Elaine. There his picture and achievement in 1924 is adorned on the wall. It will never to be forgotten.