Allianz NextGen: A Unique Opportunity for Aspiring Para Athletes
Paralympics Ireland has announced the first Allianz Next Gen event of 2025, taking place on April 13th at the University of Limerick.
This event is designed for individuals who have begun their Para sport journey and would like to delve into the world of Para Triathlon and Cycling specifically.
They will have the chance to hear and learn from world class coaches Natasha Kelly (Para Triathlon Lead with Triathlon Ireland) and Marcin Mizgajski (High Performance Para-cycling Development Coach with Cycling Ireland).
Participants have the flexibility to engage in all activities or choose to observe certain sessions, such as swimming, if they prefer.
Coaches, volunteers, and parents can also enhance their knowledge of training and support systems for athletes with disabilities at the event.
The event is open to athletes aged strictly 14 and over and will run from12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Sports Featured at the Event
•Para Triathlon
•Para Cycling
•Guide Running
•Para Archery
•Para Canoe
•Para Climbing
Who Can Attend?
The event is open to athletes aged 14 and over who are interested in learning more about these sports and exploring potential pathways.
How to Get Involved
Interested athletes will be required to register through the NextGen registration link. Registration is essential to participate.
Coaches, parents, and volunteers do not need to pre-register but can express their interest in attending by emailing nextgen@paralympics.ie.
Speaking about the event Paralympics Ireland Sports Director, Neasa Russell said, "The Allianz NextGen event underscores our commitment to nurturing emerging talent in Para sports in Ireland. "Building on the outstanding success of our previous NextGen events, which have received fantastic feedback and revealed a significant appetite for Para sports in Ireland, we are committed to empowering the next generation of athletes to achieve their highest potential."
Allianz Head of Marketing, Mark Brennan added, “Having announced our increased support for Paralympics Ireland earlier this year, as their top sponsor, we are delighted to also get behind their Next Gen programme which is essential to the continued growth of Team Ireland. Representation in sport is so important, and we believe passionately that sport can bring countless benefits to the lives of all but particular children and young people. Something which we are working to shine a light on through our Stop The Drop campaign. Importantly, the Allianz Next Gen programme gives young athletes the opportunity to try something new and find their sporting passion.”