An Irish naval officer remains in a critical condition after being struck by a car during a cycling holiday in Spain.
Donal Goulding, a Senior Chief Petty Officer with the Irish Naval Service, was among a group of cyclists involved in a collision near Costa Blanca on Wednesday. Two other members of the group were also hospitalised, though Goulding sustained the most serious injuries. He is currently in a coma and receiving treatment at Vinalopó Hospital in Elche, south of Alicante.
A close friend, Dave O’Leary, described Goulding as a dedicated serviceman who has committed his life to both his naval duties and his community. He is widely regarded for his kindness, generosity, and readiness to support others in times of need.
Beyond his naval career, Goulding is an avid cyclist and an active member of the Ballincollig Crusaders Cycling Club. He regularly participated in group cycling trips to Spain, where members of the club would join fellow cyclists in Orihuela Costa—an annual tradition marked by camaraderie and shared enthusiasm for the sport.
According to O’Leary, Goulding had arrived in Spain on April 8 for what was expected to be another routine and enjoyable cycling trip. Shortly after collecting their bicycles, the group set out for a brief ride—an activity they had undertaken many times before. During this outing, several cyclists were struck by a vehicle.
Goulding’s injuries are understood to be the most severe among those involved. He remains in a coma, with his condition described as critical, while further details continue to emerge.
In the wake of the incident, Goulding’s family faces the immediate need to travel to Spain and remain by his side. The unforeseen costs associated with travel, accommodation, and time away from work have placed a significant financial strain on them during an already distressing period.
To support the family, a fundraising campaign has been launched, aimed at alleviating the financial burden and allowing them to focus entirely on Goulding’s recovery. The appeal has garnered substantial support, raising over €34,000 towards its €60,000 target within 24 hours of its launch.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for comment.
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