Emma Stuart nominated for Irish Woman of the Year award

Veterinarian Emma Stuart, 33, was put forward for the Outsider Woman of the Year award.

Ms Stuart, who works at Paragon Vets’ Newbiggin practice, joined an impressive list of nominees, including sports enthusiasts such as an ice freediver, a long-distance paddle boarder and a transatlantic sailor.

Her nomination was given by fellow ultramarathon runner Eoin Keith. 

“I was blown away when I found out that Eoin had nominated me,” said Ms Stuart.

“He is revered in Ireland for his amazing achievements and a bit of a hero of mine. The fact that he believes in me means the world to me.”

Emma was nominated by fellow ultramarathon runner Eoin Keith (Image: Supplied)

Also shortlisted for the award was 19-year-old sailor Eve McMahon, among the youngest to qualify for the Olympics from Ireland, and Ellie Berry, aged 29, lauded for setting a new speed record for climbing every mountain in the country.

Another nominee, Jennifer Greenlees, aged 50, paddled a then record-breaking 75 miles in three days to fund her cousin's cancer treatment.

Known as The Running Vet, Emma has run some of the world's most challenging ultra-marathons while managing her job.

She said: “I want to show other vets who get bogged down and struggle with work-life balance that they can have a fulfilling career and a life outside work.

“Paragon has been so supportive and accommodating. Being willing to consider my interests and allow me to take the time off to train and compete, that makes a huge difference.”

Emma has run some of the world's most challenging ultra-marathons (Image: Supplied)

Despite not winning the award, Emma is no stranger to recognition.

Last year, she became the fastest woman to complete the difficult 350km Tor des Geants around Italy. Out of 1,300 participants in the race, Emma was among the 650 who finished and emerged the youngest female winner.

With this honour behind her, Emma is now looking forward to her next challenge, the Transgrancanaria, later this month, which attracts the best global ultramarathon runners.

“The runners are world class,” she said.

“These women run professionally - it is their full-time job. I am a local vet who runs in my spare time. I am not expecting to win and I know it’s going to be tough but I am going to do my best.”