Tributes have flooded in after the passing of former Olympian Jerry Kiernan aged 67.
The Listowel man finished ninth in the Olympic marathon in Los Angeles in 1984, and in recent years he coached top athletes including Ciara Mageean and John Travers.
He was also a respected commentator on athletics for RTE and was never shy to voice an opinion on Irish sport.
Kiernan won the Dublin marathon in 1982 and 1992 and ran a sub four minute mile in 1976.
His death was confirmed by his club Clonliffe Harriers today.
Another former Irish great Eamon Coughlan tweeted: "I’m totally gutted to hear this very sad news. RIP Jerry Kiernan - my great friend, training partner, athlete, coach & commentator. He’ll be hugely missed.”
Irish athlete David Gillick also shared his tributes.
“RIP Jerry Kiernan. Terrible news, a great athletics man, never short of a few words, helpful to so many and always up for a laugh. Condolences to his family, friends and athletes," he said.
Sunday Game presenter Des Cahill posted: "Disbelief amongst a lot of my colleagues in @RTEsport at news of Jerry Kiernan's passing. I know he was a great athlete, but also a fantastic broadcaster. Apart from his deep passion for athletics, he also loved a good argument, @FCBarcelona & giving out about the GAA! #RIPJerry"
TV and radio commentator David McIntyre said: "Many times I shared a radio studio with Jerry Kiernan. Few have spoken with more passion on athletics. His knowledge was limitless and was a godsend for the heathens like me when he joined us. RIP."
