The Cathaoirleach and Elected Members of Wicklow County Council held a Civic Reception yesterday evening, Monday 1st December in honour of Lara Gillespie, to celebrate Lara becoming Ireland’s first female gold medal, track world cycling champion.
The memorable Civic Reception was held in the Wicklow County Council chamber. Both invited guests and members of Lara’s family gathered for the occasion, creating a heartfelt and celebratory atmosphere. Speeches highlighted her dedication and impact, while informal conversations allowed everyone to share in the pride of the moment. It was a wonderful evening enjoyed by all, marking an important milestone and recognising Lara’s hard work, commitment and well-deserved success.
Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council, Cllr. Melanie Corrigan said, “We are here to celebrate a remarkable triumph by one of our own: Lara Gillespie. Her Gold medal victory at the 2025 UCI Track World Championships in Santiago, Chile, marks a proud moment not only for her, but for Wicklow and indeed, the entire country.”
Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, Emer O’Gorman, commented, “For Wicklow, Lara Gillespie’s success carries special significance. It showcases what can be achieved when local talent is nurtured, when clubs and volunteers give their time, and when young people are encouraged to strive. It reinforces the value of investing in sport and physical activity, ensuring that diverse opportunities are open to all, regardless of background or ability.”
We wish Lara all the best in her future endeavours and look forward to celebrating future successes.
Pictured in the main photo are (L to R) Mark Kiely (Cycling Coach), Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan, Dan Henchy (Track Cycling Coach) and Neill Delahaye (Head Coach) with Irish Cyclist Lara Gillespie at her Civic Reception held by Wicklow County Council in Council Buildings, Wicklow town.
Pictured in photo 1 are (L to R) Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman and Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan made a presentation to Irish Cyclist Lara Gillespie at a Civic Reception held in her honour at Council Buildings, Wicklow town.
Pictured in photo 2 is Irish Cyclist Lara Gillespie at her Civic Reception held by Wicklow County Council in Council Buildings, Wicklow town.
Pictured in photo 3 are Blaithin Liston (Mater Private Network) with Irish Cyclist Lara Gillespie at her Civic Reception held by Wicklow County Council in Council Buildings, Wicklow town.
Pictured in photo 4 are (L to R) Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council Emer O’Gorman, Theresa O’Brien (Director of Services, Climate, Environment, Recreation & Amenity), Aisling Hubbard (Wicklow Sports Partnership), Lara Gillespie, Dr Una May (Sport Ireland Chief Executive) and Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan.
Photographs by Mick Kelly.