Tiarnán O’Donnell has won his first World Cup gold medal at the 2025 Para Rowing World Cup in Varese, delivering a commanding performance in the PR2 Men’s Single Sculls (PR2 M1x) A Final to secure victory for Ireland.
O’Donnell crossed the line in a time of 8:36.61, improving by more than five seconds on his preliminary qualifying time earlier in the regatta. The gold marks a major milestone in the Limerick athlete’s international rowing career and adds to the growing momentum within Ireland’s para rowing programme.
He produced a composed performance in Friday’s preliminary race, finishing first in 8:41.80 to secure a favourable lane for the A Final. Leading from early on, he maintained steady control throughout and showed promising pace heading into the medal race.
The Limerick man was unfazed by a late schedule change, with the A Final moved forward from Sunday to Saturday due to weather concerns. O’Donnell remained composed throughout, responding confidently to the adjustment and executing a strong race under pressure.
Speaking after the final he said: “I’m delighted with my performance. I told myself I wanted to break 8:40 today and I did that and came away with a gold.”
Prior to this gold medal performance in Varese, Tiarnán O’Donnell had already made his mark during the 2024 World Rowing Cup season. He secured silver medals at both World Cup II in Lucerne and World Cup III in Poznań in the PR2 Men’s Single Sculls, showcasing consistent podium form against strong international fields. He made his Paralympic debut at the Paris 2024 Games, competing in the PR2 Mixed Double Sculls alongside Katie O’Brien. The duo reached the A Final and finished 8th overall.
