An Irish athlete has claimed two gold medals and set a new world record at the Down Syndrome World Championships.

Liam Foley, from Trim Athletics Club, successfully defended his 1500m and 800m World Championship titles at the event in Sofia, Bulgaria earlier this month.

Beyond securing two gold medals, Liam stormed to victory in the T21 800m final, setting a new world record time of 2:42.00.

The BAUHAUS Down Syndrome World Championships, which took place on June 13 to 19, brought together athletes from around the world to compete in five sports at key venues across Sofia.

The event is organised by the Federation for Adapted Physical Activity – Bulgaria.

Liam received a hero's welcome home last week at Dublin Airport, where family, friends and supporters gathered to celebrate his success.

Congratulating Liam, Trim AC said: “Liam Foley DOUBLE CHAMPION. Well done to Liam Foley, who added the 1500m title at the World Games to his 800m gold. He ran a super time of 5:59.”

“Another great run, less than 24 hours after a great 800m victory. Congrats, Liam, you are the news BIG TIME,” the club continued. 

Posting on Instagram, Down Syndrome Ireland (Louth/Meath), the branch Liam is a proud member of, said: “Your dedication, determination and hard work continue to inspire us all, Liam. We are immensely proud of everything you have achieved and delighted to see you bring home more gold for Ireland.

“Congratulations, Liam – a true champion and an inspiration.”

In July 2025, Liam travelled to Prague to compete in the 8th IAADS Open European Athletic Championships.

There, he defended his titles in the 800m and 1500m events, having won gold in both races in 2023. In addition to his double gold, he earned a bronze medal in the 400m, achieving a personal best time.