Laois daughter takes on Hyrox challenge for Irish Cancer Society in father's memory

A young Laois woman is taking on a daunting fitness event this weekend, raising money in honour of her late father who died from cancer three months ago.

Maebh Áine Ni Dhufaigh from Rosenallis will compete against international fitness fans in the Berlin Hyrox, an extreme fitness challenge on Sunday, May 18.

It is in memory of her beloved dad, horticulturalist John Duffy from Capard, Rosenallis, who died in February, with many tributes paid to him by the community.

Maebh is fundraising for the Irish Cancer Society in thanks for their support, and already has achieved over €5,000 with more donations welcome.

She explains why she is asking for Laois community support.

"My beautiful dad John lost his battle to cancer on the 5th of February 2025.

"He passed away peacefully surrounded by our family in our home. This was made easier with the help of many including The Laois Palliative Care Team and The Irish Cancer Society. They were truly exceptional throughout and were so committed to making my dad comfortable for the last few weeks.

"The Irish Cancer Society only receive 5% of its income from the State. That remaining 95% is from donations and fundraising. Without that 95%, they wouldn’t be able to carry out their services and take care of those in need. I’m sure you know at least one person who has been affected by cancer in some way, shape or form.

"With all this being said, I would love your support in raising some money to give back to The Irish Cancer Society. All proceeds raised will go straight to them and will be used to keep supporting the magnificent cause. Go raibh míle maith agaibh," she said.

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Her mother, Laois Arts Officer Muireann Ní Chonaill is also asking the public to support her.

"My wonderful husband John died in February after six months of treatment for cancer. Our daughter Maebh Áine is competing in the Womens Singles Hyrox Competition in Berlin, Germany this Sunday. She decided to use this an an opportunity to raise funds for The Irish Cancer Society. All contributions big and small are welcome," she said.

See the fundraiser on justgiving here. 

HYROX combines both running & functional workout stations, where participants run 1km, followed by 1 functional workout station, repeated eight times in a shared competitive arena cheered on by an audience.