Dave Ellis and Megan Richter Claim Gold at Paralympic Triathlon

Dave Ellis and Megan Richter of Great Britain achieved impressive victories at the Paralympic triathlon events in Paris, winning gold in the men’s PTVI and women’s PTS4 categories, respectively. The GB team earned a total of five medals across the races held in central Paris. Ellis, who finished more than a minute ahead of his competitors secured his gold medal after a challenging previous Paralympics in Tokyo where mechanical issues thwarted his chances.

Partnering with guide Luke Pollard, Dave Ellis overcame an early deficit in the swimming section made up ground during the cycling leg and surged ahead in the running segment to clinch victory. This triumph adds Paralympic gold to his world, European and Commonwealth titles. Richter making her Paralympic debut surprised many by winning gold in the women’s PTS4 event.

At 23, she transitioned from para-swimming to triathlon and overcame a stress fracture and recent illness to take the top spot. She finished 40 seconds ahead of Spain’s Marta Frances Gomez with Hannah Moore who led initially but faded towards the end claiming bronze. In the women’s PTS5 event, Claire Cashmore won silver, while the 2021 Paralympic champion Lauren Steadman earned bronze.

American Grace Norman dominated the race, finishing 1 minute and 15 seconds ahead of Cashmore. Among other results, Henry Urand narrowly missed a medal, finishing fourth in the men’s PTS3. Alison Peasgood also finished fourth in the women’s PTVI. Michael Taylor and Finley Jakes rounded out the British competitors, finishing sixth and eleventh in the men’s PTS4, respectively.

French athlete Alexis Hainquinquant won gold in the men’s PTS4, continuing his streak of major victories. The triathlon events were initially delayed by a day due to water quality concerns in the River Seine but were successfully completed with all 11 events taking place.