Students and Irish community mourn the death of athlete teacher who died in Abu Dhabi accident

Syed Shayaan Bakht, Staff Reporter

Students, teachers, parents and triathlete community in the UAE mourn the sudden death of  P.E. teacher Miss Caina Healey in road accident on Wednesday.

A car hit Healey, a well-known and agile figure in Abu Dhabi, while she was riding her bicycle to school. The authorities said the 35-year-old teacher was pronounced dead at the scene.

The young Irish woman was a prominent figure in the Abu Dhabi triathlon community.

In December, Caina qualified for the Ironman World Championships in Finland, representing UAE.

She was also an accomplished swimmer, Irish dancer and football player.

The Amity International School Abu Dhabi has expressed immense sorrow in announcing the sudden death Caina Healey.

Alison Milton, Ambassador of Ireland to the UAE, said on Twitter, “My deepest sympathies to all the Healey Family and all of Caina’s loved ones. It was extremely moving to meet Maureen, Lauren and so many of her friends earlier at the signing of the book of condolences…”

Josepha Madigan, Irish Minister of State for Special Education, also condoled the death on Twitter.

Madigan wrote, “My deepest sympathies to the Healy family on the death of Caina. From all I have heard over the last few days, Derry Teacher, Caina, was a cherished member of the Irish community here in the UAE. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis.”

Irish Embassy UAE said on Twitter, “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. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.”

Tri Belles, the UAE’s first all female triathlon community said on Facebook, “Our girl gang is completely devastated by the sudden and unexpected death this week of Caina Healey. Caina was at the heart of the Tri Belles, both on and off the course. She was the sort of person you could always rely on if you were looking for a training partner or if you needed help.

Caina showed up for our community in so many ways: she volunteered, cheered, hosted sessions at training weekends, loved a social and raced wearing our colours proudly, all with that infectious smile and the BEST laugh.

Many of us are still coming to terms with this  tragedy and in time we will arrange a memorial event. Please keep Caina and her loved ones in your thoughts.

We love you Caina, you’ll always be with us ?.”

UAE Triathlon Federation mourned her death.

The federation wrote on Facebook, “The UAE Triathlon Federation would like to express their heartfelt condolences over the sad loss of Caina Healey, Teacher, Triathlete, and Member of Team UAE.

Caina was a remarkable athlete who set the bar high for female triathletes in the UAE. We remember her as a tenacious competitor who always pushed herself to the limit and inspired others to do the same. Caina recently placed 3rd in the Bahrain Half Ironman, 1st 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. Her passion and dedication to education were evident in the way she inspired and supported her pupils, giving her time freely and regularly going above and beyond. Her contributions to the school's sports program were invaluable.

It is saddening to think that such a kind and generous person could be taken from us so unexpectedly. The absence of Caina will undoubtedly be felt by the entire triathlon and education community. However, her spirit, legacy, and the positive impact she had on so many lives will endure.”