Triathlon Ireland's newly-appointed President Dr Lochlann Walsh spoke of the upcoming National Championships and hopes for the growth of the sport. 

"We are very excited to be a part of the Paralympics family and see great potential in growing Para-triathlon in the future," he said.

"Twenty twelve was the first running of a Para-triathlon National Championships in Ireland and while there were a small number of participants it marked an important step in our development.

"This year again we will host the National Championships in Athlone and expect to see a large growth in the number taking part.

"In the first Vodafone National Series race of the season we were inspired to see Paratriathlete Tadhg Kenehan complete the tough sprint distance race in one hour 38mins.

"Meanwhile, visually impaired triathlete Nicolas Dwaque was representing Ireland in San Diego where he picked up a silver medal."

Paralympics Ireland took 16 medals at London 2012, and they believe that with further development of Para-triathlon in the country, they have the potential to pick up medals in the event at Rio 2016.

The Paratriathlon National Championships are due to take place in Athlone on July 6.

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