Ryan Wins Bronze Medal in Individual Pursuit at UCI Track Cycling World Cup Mexico

After a controlled and gutsy performance in the Women's Individual Pursuit, Caroline Ryan won the Bronze Medal from Ukraine's Anna Solovey at the Track Cycling World Cup in Aguascalientes, Mexico. Ryan had qualified for the Bronze Medal ride-off with the 4th fastest time, but rode outstandingly in the final, to seize the medal in a new Irish Record of 3.34.257. This is Ireland's first Women's World Cup medal at the elite level. The Gold medal was won by Rebecca Wiasak (AUS), who is the World Number One ranked Pursuiter, silver went to GB's Elinor Barker.

The former International Rower rode a steady first half in the 3km Time Trial, marginally trailing Solovey. However, once passed the halfway mark Ryan's control paid dividends, as she pushed ahead, to win by an eventual .205seconds.

Speaking from the medal ceremony, Head Coach Brian Nugent said "Caroline rode a controlled race early on, and fought hard in the closing laps, to make sure she won Ireland's first Elite Women's World Cup medal. It was going to be difficult to take a medal tonight, but Caroline met the challenge head on, and she deserved that one. We're all so proud of her."

Next up on the Irish Team is sprinter Eoin Mullen, who will be competing in the Men's Keirin later on tonight.

The main goal of the Irish Team at this second World Cup of the Season, is to secure qualifying points for the World Championships in February. Ryan has now secured a place in both the Points Race and the Individual Pursuit.

The World Cup runs from the 5th - 7th December in Aguascalientes, Mexico.