An Irish woman living and working in the Middle East, while also pursuing her triathlon career, has been killed in a crash with a driver while she was cycling to work.
Caina Healey (35), from Derry, was killed when she was hit by a driver in a car last Wednesday on her way to work in Al Taweelah in Abu Dhabi. She had lived in the region for a number of years and had been working in Amity International School as a PE teachers. News of her sad death has only emerged publicly in Ireland in the last 24 hours.
Ms Healey was well known in Abu Dhabi triathlon circles and had qualified to represent the UAE in the half Ironman World Championships in Finland later this year.
The Irish Embassy in UAE said in statement: "We are devastated by the loss of a dear member of our community in Abu Dhabi, Caina Healey. An incredible athlete, a caring teacher and a loving friend to many in the UAE. Caina was a shining light that left us far too soon."
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Raha Cycling - a group Ms Healey trained with at times - said it had learned of her death with "great sadness" and it was "devastating news" to have to share. It described her as a "highly respected teacher" as well as "a talented athlete across many sports with her passion being triathlons".
"Caina was a huge supporter of road cycling, either out with us, the Al Reef group, the TriBelles or just by herself. Amongst her friends she was much loved and her passing will leave a great void in the lives of many. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family and closest friends."
The UAE Triathlon Federation described Ms Healey was a "remarkable athlete who set the bar high for female triathletes". It added she was a "tenacious competitor" who "always pushed herself to the limit and inspired others to do the same".
"Caina recently placed third in the Bahrain Half Ironman, first in the Muscat Half Ironman relay, and had qualified to represent Team UAE in the Half Ironman World Championship 2023. Caina was an exceptional educator who touched the lives of many students, and her passing is a great loss to Amity International School and the community."
