Despite facing adversity just days earlier, Neil Fachie showcased remarkable resilience and determination to secure the 20th title of his career at the Para-cycling Track World Championships. Fachie, along with his wife Lora and pilot Corrine Hall, had their silver medals stolen in a mugging incident in Rio de Janeiro following the opening day of the championships.
Undeterred by the setback, Fachie bounced back with an outstanding performance on the track, winning gold in the men’s tandem 1km time-trial alongside pilot Matt Rotherham. Despite feeling uncertain about their form heading into the event, Fachie and Rotherham delivered a flawless ride, clocking a time of one minute and 0.343 seconds, securing victory over their rivals.
The defending champions’ success contributed to Britain’s continued dominance in para-cycling, with the nation clinching gold and silver in multiple events. Paralympic champion Jaco van Gass added to Britain’s medal tally by claiming gold in the men’s C3 individual pursuit, marking a significant achievement in his career.
While Fin Graham, the reigning champion, settled for silver in the same event, the British team demonstrated their strength and depth in para-cycling, showcasing their prowess on the world stage. With six gold and six silver medals, Britain currently leads the medal table with two days of competition remaining.
Looking ahead to Saturday’s events, spectators can anticipate thrilling races in various categories, including the men’s C2, C3, C4, and C5 1km time-trials, the women’s C4 scratch race, as well as the men’s and women’s tandem individual pursuits.