Ireland’s para-cycling duo, Katie-George Dunlevy and Linda Kelly, continued their winning form at the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Cup in Maniago, Italy, held from May 15 to May 18. The pair claimed gold in both the time trial and the road race, reaffirming their position among the world’s elite in Para-cycling. Their performance marked a triumphant return to the Italian roads where, just a year ago, Dunlevy suffered a serious injury that had cast doubt over participation at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Dunlevy recovered and won and incredible three medals: gold in the Women’s B Time Trial alongside pilot Linda Kelly, and two silvers: one in the Women’s B Road Race (again with Linda) and another in the 3000m Individual Pursuit with Eve McCrystal.
Speaking about her race on social media, Katie-George reflected on the journey: “How unbelievably different a year can be. In 2024 I left Italy with a shattered clavicle, needing urgent surgery. This year I left with two Gold medals. Anything is possible — grit, determination, believe in yourself.”
There was more to celebrate for the Irish squad. Double Paralympian Richael Timothy made a powerful statement in the women’s events, earning silver in the road race and finishing 7th in the time trial, a results that suggest 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season for the Roscommon athlete.
Sharing her perspective, Timothy wrote: “Reflecting on this time last year, I honestly thought my cycling journey was over. But in February, I decided to give it one last shot. I made some changes and prioritized other aspects of my life, and as a result, I began to enjoy cycling again. I love sport, competition, and racing, but I need a reason. Last year, I didn’t perform at my best, and that’s not the retirement I had in mind. I want to leave the sport on my own terms, when I feel I’ve truly given my all. I know I still have more to offer.”
Cormac O’Callaghan and Allister McSorley, both part of the newly launched Aspire Programme, also delivered strong performances that highlighted Ireland’s developing talent pipeline. O’Callaghan placed 9th in the road race and 10th in the time trial, a commendable showing for an athlete still early in his international career. McSorley, competing in the MH4 handcycle category, secured 12th place in the time trial and 13th in the road race, continuing to build experience on the global stage. These results reflect the strength, depth, and promise of Ireland’s Para-cycling programme.
