Vereker honoured for Paralympics performance
Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr Jason Murphy pictured with Damien Vereker, his wife Jenny, daughter Alanna, grandson Archie, parents Denny and Catherina and sister Jenny. Photos: Noel Browne.
Local Paralympic hero Damien Vereker was honoured at City Hall this week by Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr Jason Murphy in recognition of his performance at Paris 2024 and his commitment to elevating the sport of cycling in Waterford and beyond.
Married to Jennifer Barrett, Vereker, along with his pilot Mitchell McLaughlin put in an exceptional performance at the games this year, not only setting a new personal best by six seconds, but also setting a new Irish national record for the Men’s B 4000m Individual Pursuit.
His hard work and commitment to the sport were also showcased when he represented Ireland at the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, where he achieved an impressive 8th place finish.
In welcoming Damien, his family, friends and the community to City Hall, Mayor of Waterford city and county, Cllr Jason Murphy said: “Damien is an exceptional athlete and a seasoned member of the Ireland para-cycling national team. His commitment to the sport and to representing his country is nothing short of inspiring.
Speaking on Damien’s most recent achievements alongside Mitchell McLaughlin, Cllr Murphy said: “This past summer, Damien competed in a second Paralympics, this time in Paris, where he once again made us all proud. Not only did he and Mitchell deliver an outstanding performance, but they set a new personal best by six seconds, an incredible feat.
“You have shown us what can be accomplished with perseverance, passion and a deep commitment to excellence. You’ve not only broken records, you’ve broken down barriers for so many aspiring athletes” he added. Cllrs Seamus Ryan, John Hearne and Frank Quinlan were present at the reception to commend Damien on his success.
Cllr Seamus Ryan, who first introduced the proposal to host the reception for Vereker, said: “I have known Damien and Jenny for a long time and they’ve always been very dedicated. There wasn’t a time when I didn’t know Damien training, going to events, European championships or world championships. I have no doubt Damien will continue to go from strength to strength."
Cllr John Hearne added: “It’s absolutely incredible what Damien has achieved. Nobody can take your achievement away from you and we’re very proud of you.”
Meanwhile, Cllr Frank Quinlan said: “It’s an incredible achievement to represent himself, his family and Waterford on the world stage. The amount of work, dedication and effort that goes into getting to where you are is a sure testament to your ability. Cycling is one of the toughest and most enduring sports you can do, and it shows how tough this man is to do what he does, get to the Paralympics, and represent Waterford in the highest manner.”
On receiving the reception, Damien thanked Comeragh Cycling Club in Waterford and the local community for their support: “I have great support here in Waterford and I definitely wouldn’t be here or getting to the Paralympics without the local support from family, friends, communities in Waterford and sports clubs. You were all there for me over the years and I’m very privileged.”
