In the cycling world you meet some interesting people, Hugh de Paor is one of them! Hugh started his cycling with the Waterford Crystal Road Club (They became Comeragh CC and was with Comeragh CC for several years) Later he competed with Team Belarus CC of Waterford .He hold cycling coaching qualification from the federation of Irish cyclists, and is also now in the CI pool of photographers. He also hold an 1987 silver medal national schoolboy championships . Photography wise , Hugh is a graduate of photography with Waterford Institute of Technology gaining three distinctions. A holder of Associateship and Licentiate in Photography . Also holding two national silver and bronze medals in Photography. His CV speaks volume, he has covered European Athletics , World Cup Qualifiers , European Qualifiers , Olympic Qualifiers. European championships. League of Ireland , Over 20 all Ireland Camogie’s and Ladies Gaelic football finals .Six nations women’s rugby , Ireland Men’s Football National team ,Ireland Football Women’s National Team, European Basketball and UCI. In 2023 , he became the a world sports Photography awards finalist in the cycling category . Up against the great Tour de France photographers. His image was the only one that showed female cyclists. A great man to have on board, promoting my work at every opportunity, and I can call him a great Munster Province ambassador for the project. Hugh told me: “I’m very proud to be Munster ambassador for the Belgian project . I am also Ireland Ambassador for XL Biking which is about inclusion for all regardless of ability, weight , size, and gender ..so that cycling can be reached by everyone, and to promote a healthy life size”
Image depicts the aftermath of a crash between Roisin Lally ( Ireland) and Hannah McClory in the women’s elite event. This was a star studded event that included the top cyclo-cross riders, and one of the world’s greatest cyclist in Pauline Ferrand Prevot.
The famous Sir Barney the 3rd, now retired from running for charity
Some of Sir Barney’s medals
Bobby Buttons getting in the paw steps of Sir Barney!! (1 year old)
Here some selected photos from Hugh
A minute silence was held at the UCI (cl2) CX in Clonmel in memory of Muriel Furrer (Swiss) who died of her injuries received during a crash at the World Champs in Switzerland. A very emotional moment before the Women’s Senior and U23 race start. A photo reel of the race can be found on https://www.facebook.com/reel/991069066367388
With thanks to Hugh de Paor ABPPA LBPPA
Photographer https://www.instagram.com/irishphotoexplorer
World Sports Photography Awards Finalist 2023
XL Biking Ireland Ambassador
The Belgian Project Ambassador
Cycling Ireland Pool Photographer
Extra time Photographer
Sports Press Photo
