Sean McAnuff Retires From Competition

Short track speed skater Sean McAnuff (29) has taken the decision to end his competitive career.

With his brother Ryan, McAnuff has been a pioneer for Irish short track speed skating. He began representing Ireland internationally in August 2016 and made his debut on the then ISU World Cup circuit that autumn. He was the first skater from Ireland to compete at the ISU World Junior Short Track Speed Skating Championships which he did in 2017. In subsequent seasons, he went on to race at six ISU European Short Track Speed Skating Championships and four ISU World Short Track Speed Skating Championships. His last Worlds earlier this year was in Canada where he was born, grew up and learned his craft. Fittingly, he also posted his highest ever placement at Worlds finishing 23rd in the 1000 metre distance in what would be his final competitive race. He was a member of the original Irish Wolfhounds pack that suited up for the inaugural ISU Short Track World Tour in October 2024. He remains the Irish record holder for the 500 metre distance.

“After many years representing Ireland, this is not a decision I make lightly,” McAnuff said. “It has been a great honour to wear the Irish uniform at ISU Championships and international competitions and to have played a part in building the sport in Ireland from its earliest days. I am grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received from the ISAI over the past decade.

“Looking back over my career, I’m proud of how much I’ve grown and improved as an athlete, and I’ve valued every connection I’ve made along the way. The short track community has been a huge part of my life for the past ten years, and the relationships I’ve built with teammates, coaches and competitors are something I’ll carry with me long after the racing ends. This journey has shaped me and helped me grow in many ways that I’m excited to carry into the next part of our life.”

“On behalf of the Ice Skating Association of Ireland, I want to congratulate Sean on a wonderful career and express gratitude for all he has done for short track in Ireland since the very beginning,” ISAI President Seán Gillis said. “He has dedicated himself so totally to training and competing, but what has been equally impressive is how he has conducted himself both on and off the ice as an ambassador for Irish ice skating. There will be many people in the short track community who will miss his kind and gentle spirit at events this season. Wishing Sean, his wife Jess, MVP Maple and new edition Syrup a happy and fulfilling next stage of their life together.”