PARA | Jessica Gallagher switches from cycling to rowing

Photo © Casey Gibson

Cycling Australia would like to wish Jessica Gallagher the very best as she transitions from the sport of cycling to rowing. 

A former para alpine skier, Gallagher made history in 2010 by becoming the first female athlete from Australia to win a medal at the Paralympic Winter Games when she claimed bronze in the slalom, a feat she would equal in 2014.

Gallagher’s ability to transfer athletic skills across sports was evident in 2011 when she claimed two World Para Athletics Championship medals before representing Australia at the London 2012 Paralympic Games in the long jump and javelin. 

Switching to cycling in 2015, Gallagher then became the first Australian to win a medal at both the Paralympic Summer and Winter Games after winning the track cycling time trial bronze at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games.

In a glittering cycling career, Gallagher claimed the 2016 sprint world title plus three silver and bronze medals with partner Madison Janssen at the UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships. The pairing also secured two second-place finishes at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games. 

“I have really enjoyed cycling however I am now also incredibly excited about the opportunity for the transfer to rowing,” said Gallagher.  

Warren McDonald, Cycling Australia’s Para-cycling Technical Director, recognised Gallagher’s career and legacy in the sport. 

“Jess has a tremendous athletic ability which has been highlighted by success at the highest level across multiple (winter and summer games) in sports such as alpine skiing, athletics and cycling,” said McDonald.
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“Jess has been a terrific ambassador for cycling, para-cycling and female athletes and we wish her the very best in her future sporting endeavours.”