County Derry trio to represent Ireland in Paris Paralympics

County Derry will have three representatives for Team Ireland in the 2024 Paralympics. 

Twins Chloe and Judith MacCombe, along with Dearbhaile Brady from Claudy and Feeny, respectively, will represent their country in Paris. 

The MacCombe sisters will compete in the triathlon with their guides, Catherine Sands (Chloe) and Eimear Nicolls (Judith), as the twins are both visually impaired. 

Claudy is the birthplace of the MacCombe's, and the village may soon have a paralympic medalist, as much is expected from the sisters. 

This is the first Paralympic Games for Chloe, with the 29-year-old currently the world number 3 and silver medalist from the 2022 Commonwealth Games. 

In an Instagram post, Chloe said: “Super excited and blessed to have this incredible opportunity to race for Ireland with Catherine! And obviously thrilled beyond measure that Judith & Eimear will be on the start line too, and Cassie racing the day before!

“The Irish girls are on fire.

“Still just a sinner saved by grace.

“Who happens to be going to Paris to do a triathlon (DV) in September!

“So, so thankful to everyone who has helped us get this far. It’s down to your kindness, patience, generosity, prayers, and love that we’re now having to brush up on some French!

“That’s all for now, folks. Soli Deo Gloria.”

Judith found form recently that helped her qualify for the games, with a standout performance as she finished fourth in the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham. 

Posting on Instagram, Judith said: “It’s been a long and difficult road to get to this point—to say we’ve qualified and are due to compete in the Paralympic Games on the Second of September.

“Few know the struggles and obstacles we’ve faced as a team and as individuals. But I’m forever grateful for those who’ve had our backs through it all.

“I’m so grateful for your love and support through all the ups and downs of the past year.

“My faith, though not unwavering, has been an anchor for me. Knowing that God has a plan for my life and that He is in control of all things has brought peace and comfort in times of uncertainty.

“To those who’ve been there when I’ve sent out panicked prayer requests, reminded me of God's sovereignty, and encouraged me through the tough times - I don’t have the words to say how much your support means to me.

“To the team of people behind me, made up of family, friends, coaches, and many others, thank you. I hope we can make you all proud.

“AND how incredible to share the pontoon with some amazing ladies from Ireland—Chloe & Catherine, and Cassie Cava.

“For His Glory and His Renown.”

The North West Triathlon Club revelled in the news and posted their congratulations to the twins on Facebook. 

Their post said: “We are thrilled to announce that our very own Judith MacCombe & Eimear Nicholls and Chloe MacCombe & Catherine Sands have been selected to represent Ireland at the Paralympics in Paris!

“For those who have been following their journey, you know the dedication, hard hours of training, travel, and racing that have led to this moment. Now, all that hard work is about to pay off in the most spectacular way.

“Our Tandem Twins will join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and cheering them on as they take on Paris. Go Team Ireland! be swimming in the iconic Seine River and cycling through the historic cobbled streets of Paris, navigating the same routes that the elite men and women tackled the other morning. The challenges of the Seine's currents and Paris' cobbled streets make this an incredible feat, especially for visually impaired athletes. Their determination and teamwork, along with the support of their guides, will surely shine through.

“This is not just a moment of pride for Judith, Eimear, Chloe, and Catherine, but for the entire Northwest Triathlon Club and our community. Let's show them our support and send them off with all the luck in the world!”

Meanwhile, teenager Brady will represent Ireland in the pool. 

Having recently won the bronze medal in her discipline at the European Championships, the Feeny native will be quietly confident of securing a medal at the Paralympic Games. 

And as Team Ireland announced their Paralympic Team last week, Brady took to the stage along with the rest of the team as they began their final preparations for Paris.