Paratriathalon

Paratriathlon is the adapted version of triathlon for athletes with a physical disability, including those who are blind / vision impaired. The sport is governed by the International Triathlon Union (ITU). In Ireland, paratriathlon is governed by Triathlon Ireland under the ITU auspices.

Paratriathlon History

In 2012, the International Paralympic Committee approved paratriathlon for Rio 2016. Ireland was represented in Rio by Catherine Walsh.The annual ITU Triathlon World Championships includes a paratriathlon sprint distance event with a 750 m swim, 20km cycling using handcycles, bicycles or tandem bicycles with a guide and a 5km wheelchair or running race. Athletes compete in six categories according to the nature of their physical impairments, with variations made to the traditional event structure commensurate with their disability.

Vision Sports Ireland & Triathlon Ireland

In 2017, Vision Sports Ireland partnered with Triathlon Ireland (paratriathlon section) to successfully bid for Sport Ireland Dormant Account Funding to cater for the development of the four sports of paratriathlon, tandem cycling, running, and swimming. As the primary partner, Vision Sports has been successful in attaining ongoing Sport Ireland funding for the development.Paratriathlon Ireland director Eamon Tilley welcomes blind / vision impaired people at all levels to join in the sport of triathlon.