Ionela Drăgan wins bronze at World Climbing Para Series in Innsbruck

Ionela Drăgan has made her mark by winning a bronze medal in the B3 category at the World Climbing Para Series held in Innsbruck, Austria, on June 15-16, 2026. This achievement highlights the growing talent and determination of Romanian athletes in para climbing.

Romania was proudly represented by ten athletes at this prestigious competition, which saw over 298 participants from 30 countries. Among the team, three young debutants showed their potential, marking a promising future for the sport in Romania.

The Romanian athletes competed in various categories dedicated to individuals with visual impairments, amputations, and neuromotor conditions. Alongside Drăgan's success, Răzvan Nedu secured a commendable fourth place in the B2 category, while Andrei-Șerban Popa-Florea finished seventh in the RP1 category.

Other notable performances included Daniel Bebe Vasilică Andrei in B3, who placed fifth, and Andrei George Petraru, who competed in RP1 and finished in 22nd place. In the AL2 category, Ștefan Liviu Dogaru achieved an 11th place finish, while Liviu Nicolae Matei placed seventh in AU3. Mina Paraschiva Mocanu and Daniela Roberta Chiriac, both in B1, finished ninth and seventh respectively, with Chiriac expressing her emotions and gratitude for her first international representation.

The team was guided by Claudiu Miu, the head coach of the National Para Climbing Team, alongside manager Antoaneta Barbu, coach Radu Ionescu, physiotherapist Constantin Voicescu, and instructor Andrei Băț. Miu emphasized that the athletes' performances reflect excellence built on hard work, perseverance, and equal opportunities.

The World Climbing Para Series is a key event in the official circuit organized by World Climbing, dedicated to showcasing some of the best para climbing athletes worldwide. Romania's participation in this event contributes significantly to the development of para climbing in the country.