Louise Shanahan

Louise Shanahan (born 26 January 1997) is an Irish athlete. She competed in the women's 800 metres event at the 2020 Summer Olympics.

Early life and education Shanahan was born in Cork, Ireland, a child of Liz and Ray Shanahan. When she was growing up, Shanahan's father was her coach, until she moved to England. Her father was also an Irish national champion in the 1500 meters, making them the first father and daughter to become national champions in Ireland in that event.

Shanahan obtained a BSc degree in physics from the University College Cork (Cork, Ireland) in 2019. She completed a PhD in physics at Trinity College, Cambridge in 2024.

Career In 2013, Shanahan became the European Youth Champion in the 800 metres. However, after breaking a bone in her foot in 2015, she struggled to maintain her form.