Colm O'Connell

Colm O'Connell, FSP (born 18 August 1948) is an Irish Catholic religious brother, missionary and athletics coach. He is often referred to as "The Godfather of Kenyan running". He is a member of the Patrician Brothers.

Career O'Connell is originally from Caherduggan, Mallow, County Cork. He joined the Patrician Brothers at the age of 14, training in Tullow, County Carlow,

His students include Edna Kiplagat, Florence Kiplagat, Lornah Kiplagat, Linet Masai, Mary Keitany, Ibrahim Kipkemboi Hussein, Peter Rono, Matthew Birir, Sammy Tirop, Haron Lagat, Janeth Jepkosgei, Viola Kibiwott, Brimin Kipruto, Joseph Tengelei, Isaac Songok, Wilson Boit, Vivian Cheruiyot, Michael Kipyego, Augustine Kiprono Choge, Wilson Kipketer, David Rudisha, and Rhonex Kipruto. O'Connell is credited in starting the influx of female athletes to Iten in the early 1990s when he trained and hosted World Champion Sally Barsosio, Rose Cheruiyot and world junior champion Lydia Cheromei.

Awards In 2001, O'Connell was awarded an honorary MA from NUI Galway for his services to Africa and to Athletics. Credit to his work as a coach is covered in "the 'Man on a Mission' - O'Connell and the rise of Kenyan Athletics" by Jamie D'Alton and Anne McLoughlin documentary. The documentary Man on a Mission was presented by Irish former athlete, and now senator, Eamon Coghlan.

In 2012, O'Connell was awarded an honorary doctorate by Dublin City University. Olympic and World Champion David Rudisha joined him on the trip to Ireland, visiting Galway, Mallow and Newbridge.

O'Connell was awarded an Irish Presidential Distinguished Service Award for Arts, Culture & Sport in 2021.