DAME SARAH STOREY was “creaking” ahead of winning her 19th Paralympic gold today but refused to rule out competing in Los Angeles at the age of 50.

Cyclist Storey, 46, signed off the ninth Games of her remarkable career in thrilling fashion by retaining the women’s C4-5 road race crown following a dramatic sprint finish against a rival rider 27 years her junior.

French 19-year-old Heidi Gaugain made a break for victory in the final stages of the 71-kilometre event in Paris before the reigning champion reeled her in and punched the air in celebration.

Sophie Unwin later won gold in the women’s B road race, ahead of Ireland’s Katie-George Dunlevy and British team-mate Lora Fachie.

Asked if she will be in LA in 2028, Storey said: “I need to enjoy this one first but, to quote Simone Biles [American gymnast], absolutely — never say never to anything.

“This just needs to sink in first because it was actually one of the most exciting races that we’ve had. From the word go, it was full gas.

“My glutes are on fire. I was creaking before the race, absolutely. But that’s normal and it’s about finding ways to manage the process and the privilege of getting old as an athlete.

“I wanted to be an athlete for as long as I possibly could. I never anticipated eight Games, let alone nine.

“You put yourself out there every time you put yourself on the start line and I keep doing that and keep finding ways to win a bike race, so long may that continue.”