Jerry Kiernan facts for kids
Jeremiah Kiernan (born May 31, 1953 – died January 21, 2021) was a famous Irish long-distance runner. He was known for his amazing speed and endurance in races like marathons.
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Jeremiah Kiernan's Running Journey
Jeremiah was born in a town called Listowel in County Kerry, Ireland. He grew up to become one of Ireland's top athletes.
Olympic Dreams Come True
In 1984, Jeremiah got to represent his home country at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. He ran in the men's marathon, which is a very long race, and finished in an impressive ninth place! Another Irish runner, John Treacy, won a silver medal in the same race. Jeremiah's time in that Olympic marathon was 2 hours, 12 minutes, and 20 seconds.
Winning Races and Setting Records
Jeremiah was a fantastic marathon runner. He won the famous Dublin Marathon twice, first in 1982 and again in 1992. He also won the national cross country title in 1984.
He was once the Irish record holder for the 3000 metres race. Jeremiah was also one of the few Irish runners to complete a four-minute mile. He was the seventh Irish runner to achieve this amazing feat in June 1976.
Representing Ireland and Coaching Others
Jeremiah proudly represented Ireland 17 times between 1975 and 1993. He competed seven times in world cross-country championships. He also won five Irish titles in different races, from the 1,500m to the marathon. He even won national inter-club and inter-county cross-country titles.
His running club in Dublin was called Clonliffe Harriers. After his own running career, Jeremiah helped other athletes. He coached many people, including the well-known runner Ciara Mageean. He often trained at the UCD campus.
Jeremiah was also a regular face on RTÉ television. He helped cover athletics events for them.
Life Outside Running
Jeremiah Kiernan was also a dedicated teacher. He taught at St. Brigid's Boys School in Foxrock for about 40 years. He retired from teaching in June 2013.
Jeremiah passed away on January 21, 2021, when he was 67 years old.
See also
- Ireland at the 1984 Summer Olympics
- 1984 in athletics (track and field)
