Irish LGBTQ+ para-cyclist Katie-George Dunlevy and her pilot Linda Kelly have added yet another Paralympic medal to their impressive collection from this summer’s Paris Games, securing silver in the women’s B road race.
The duo finished second behind Great Britain’s Sophie Unwin and Jenny Holl, who took the gold in a close sprint to the finish line. Unwin and Holl crossed the line with a time of 2:37.26, while Dunlevy and Kelly followed closely, just three seconds behind. Great Britain’s Lora Fachie and her pilot Corrinne Hall rounded out the podium, earning the bronze medal, one minute 35 seconds behind their competition.
This silver marks Katie-George Dunlevy’s third medal at the Paris Games. Earlier in the competition, she claimed gold in the time trial with Kelly and silver in the B 3000m individual pursuit alongside pilot Eve McCrystal. Dunlevy and Kelly had been in the lead as the finish line came into view but were ultimately overtaken by Unwin and Holl, who had the energy to push through for the victory in the final sprint.
📢”I wanted to win the gold and retain my title so I’m a bit disappointed but a silver medal is amazing,” says Katie-George Dunlevy after finishing second in the B road race.@ParalympicsIRE | @CyclingIreland | #TeamIreland pic.twitter.com/QqWBrsy1vg
— Sport Ireland (@sportireland) September 6, 2024
Dunlevy has not only excelled in her sport, but she has also become a beacon of inspiration beyond cycling. Her courage extends beyond her athletic achievements, as she has spoken openly about her personal journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
In recent years, her coming-out story has resonated deeply with people in the queer community across Ireland and the UK, making her a powerful advocate for authenticity and self-acceptance.
The Irish Paralympian’s accomplishments on the track and her advocacy off it have solidified her as a role model for many, both in sport and in life. With yet another Paralympic medal to her name, Dunlevy will be coming home with an exceptionally heavy bag and a continuous legacy as one of Ireland’s most decorated Paralympians.
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