League Winners Crowned at Final Round of Para-cycling National Series
It seemed fitting that as the Paralympic Games concluded so did the Para-cycling National Series for 2024. The national league not only provides a supportive and welcoming competition environment for all those involved in Para-cycling but it is also the perfect foundation for athletes aspiring to high performance.
With the addition of Marcin Mizgajski as Para-cycling Development Coach, this year has provided riders with additional supports and coaching throughout the league.
Beginning in early March, the series included seven rounds across Ireland. The final round, the Thomas White Memorial, took place on Sunday, 8th of September, hosted by Banbridge Cycling Club.
Final Round Results
Chris Burns won the Solo Bike category on Sunday, finishing ahead of Heather Jameson in second and Tom Murphy in third.
Declan Slevin added to his tally winning the Handbike category. Seamus Wall and Ray Murnane completed the podium.
In the Tandem category victory went to Ciaran O'Toole, piloted by Brian Hennesy. Ciaran Butler, piloted by Noel Feely, was second and Jessica Kennedy, piloted by Shauna Finn, finished third.
League Results
It was all to play for heading into the final round in the Solo category. A strong performance from Tom Murphy saw him finish on 150 points to win the league. Heather Jackson finished narrowly behind on 142 to claim the runner-up position. Ivan Naluswa completed the podium on 82 points.
There was no doubting Declan Slevin’s victory in the Handbike category. He finished on a very impressive 210 points. Seamus Wall and Ray Murnane were second and third on 152 and 96 points respectively.
Victory in the final leg helped secure league victory for Ciaran O’Toole. He finished on 146 points in the Tandem category. Ciaran Butler was second on 126 and Jessica Kennedy was third on 74.
Well done to everyone who took part in and supported the Para-cycling National Series this year. It continues to play a vital role in the development and growth of Para-cycling in Ireland.