After taking a break for several years due to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, we were excited to come together again for our Awards Celebration on Sunday, January 28, 2024.
The event, which saw a remarkable turnout of 220 attendees, served as a joyous occasion to honour the medal winners of the 2023 Ulster Championships in Road, Track, Cyclo-cross and BMX.
We kicked off with a welcome from Chairperson Tommy McCague followed by a delicious meal of Turkey, Beef or Salmon, with the kids enjoying their option of Chicken Goujons. The kids table looked like the place to be.
Master of Ceremonies Martin Grimley skill-fully led the proceedings, acknowledging prize winners across various age categories, spanning from U8 to M70, showcasing the enduring appeal of the sport.
A total of 191 medals and trophies as well as 3 Leisure awards and 1 special award were handed out by our special guests and Cycling Ulster Executive members.
Tommy McCague, Chair, awarded the prestigious Chairpersons award, the only award to be solely decided by the Chair, to the Rafferty family for their dedication and success in our sport. During his speech Tommy reflected on the importance of our Youth and the success of the Rafferty family who all came up through the ranks at Island Wheelers Cycling Club.
Tommy shared that this would be his last year as Chair, having given 9 years of service to the Executive.
It is celebrations like this where you really see how much support is behind each of our award winners, with large family groups coming along to share in the success. The kids looked great in their finery and seemed to have a lot of fun chatting about the season ahead (in between posing for photos)
We were joined by a number of special guests-
Tom Daly, President of Cycling Ireland, Claire Young and Carl Fullerton of the Cycling Ireland board and James Quilligan CEO.
Jack Watson and Dany Blondeel from ‘The Belgian Project’. Andrew Muir MLA, Phillip McCallen were also in attendance.
Special recognition goes to Toby Watson, who captured the essence of the evening through his photography, documenting both the event and the achievements of the award winners.
Cycling Ulster extends its sincere appreciation to sponsors Phillip McCallen, O’Reilly Steward Solicitors, and The Donnelly Group for their steadfast support.
Looking ahead, Cycling Ulster eagerly anticipates the 2024 season and invites clubs to participate in hosting this years Ulster Championship events throughout the year. If your club would like to host an event, email gemma.mcnamara@cyclingireland.ie
