USA-based Kiwi Para cyclist Rory Mead has opened his 2026 international campaign with a podium in the UCI World Cup in Belgium today.
Mead, who has been based back in his family home in Wellington over the summer, has finished third in the men’s handcycle time trial to open his European campaign in the coastal town of Middelkerke, Gistel.
The 39-year-old produced a strong performance to podium behind the two Paris Paralympic gold medallists in Frenchman Florian Jouanny from France, the road race winner, and Paris time trial champion, Sergio Garrote Munoz from Spain.
Jouanny took out the 10.2km test in 16:34.17, to finish 44s ahead of Garrote Munoz with Mead third in 18.00.44.
The kiwi was a minute clear of his closest rival in a strong performance in tough conditions. Riders faced strong winds throughout the contest, which blew in off the land rather than the expected breeze off the North Sea alongside the coastal course.
“It was a good performance in tough conditions,” said Cycling New Zealand lead Paracycling Coach, Brendan Cameron.
“Rory is happy with that effort today and great that he gets another time trial performance next week in Italy.
“Rory has a recovery day tomorrow and then will focus on his 44km road race on Thursday which could be quite windy again to test the riders.”
Results: UCI Para Cycling Road World Cup, Belgium, Men’s H2 Time Trial (10.2km): Jouanny Florian (FRA) 16:34.17, 1; Sergio Garrote Munoz (ESP) 17:18.40, 2; Rory Mead (NZL) 18:00.44, 3.
Rory Mead (right) on the podium in Belgium today. (SWPix)