Famous Letterkenny People
Dylan Browne McMonagle — Champion Jockey: Born in Letterkenny and raised in Donegal, Dylan Browne McMonagle has become one of Ireland’s most exciting flat jockeys. A multiple champion apprentice, he has ridden major winners for top trainers including Joseph O’Brien. Still in his early 20s, he continues to rise rapidly through Irish and UK racing, earning widespread respect for his talent and composure.
Letterkenny has produced remarkable talent across sport, arts, and culture. Caitriona Jennings, an elite long‑distance and ultra‑marathon runner, represented Ireland in the 2012 Olympic marathon and later became a world‑record holder in the 100‑mile distance, running 12:37:04 in 2025. She continues to compete at the highest level while balancing a career in aviation.
Rory Kavanagh, All‑Ireland–winning Gaelic footballer, enjoyed a distinguished career with Donegal, earning multiple Ulster titles and over 100 county appearances. After retiring, he moved into management and now leads Watty Graham’s Glen, continuing his influence on Gaelic games.
Philip Deignan, a professional road cyclist and Olympian, rose to prominence with major international results, including a Vuelta a España stage win. Born in Letterkenny, he later retired from professional cycling and has remained active in the sport’s development.
Danny Mc Daid is one of Letterkenny’s greatest sporting figures — a two‑time Olympian and four‑time Irish marathon champion. Born in 1941, he became the first Irishman to finish the marathon at the 1972 Munich Olympics . He later competed again in Montreal in 1976, qualifying after running an extraordinary 2:13:06, then the fastest marathon ever by an Irishman whilst captained Ireland at multiple World Cross Country Championships,