The Lakeland Cycling Club held their annual awards night last Saturday at the Taphouse Bar/Restaurant after what was yet again another successful and very busy year.

A night for celebrating was also one full of poignancy, as the club took time to remember William Lyons, who very sadly passed away during the season.

Club Chairperson Seamus McGovern summed up everyone’s feelings as he spoke of William’s commitment to the club and his constant good humour and ever-present unselfish nature at the club events.

And so, it was no surprise that William received a posthumous award as Club Person of the year for 2022, which his widow, Geraldine, graciously accepted on his behalf.

It was an emotional moment for all involved in the club, and which rightfully took pride of place in the awards ceremony, which was presented along with a beautiful framed and signed Lakeland Jersey.

There were plenty of other winners on the night as well, as summarising the main awards, Kyle Fisher took the 2022 Road Race league, Seamus McGovern took the Time Trial league and Niall Murphy took the overall points title from all the different events.

Looking forward, the club faces challenging times as, with all cycling clubs, the pressure of mounting administration and compliance provides difficult marshalling challenges to complete the race calendar.

Discussion

Indeed, much discussion took place at the recently held AGM about volunteering issues, going forward.

Seamus McGovern remains the club Chairperson, Conor Sprice also remained in position as Treasurer, and Michael Pickles joined the executive committee as Secretary for 2023.

With an excellent committee in place in race comms, and a hopeful aspiration on behalf of the club to instigate further social cycling, all looks well for 2023.

The club would, however, appeal to all members, past and present, with an interest in maintaining what is one of the best race calendars in Ireland, to make themselves available to help out in 2023.

As a minority sport it is all too easy to see a great club slipping into issues with volunteerism with a raft of new regulations to comply with.

As always, the club is looking forward to another year of fantastic co-operation with other local cycling clubs, Ballinamallard Flyers and Three Peaks Cycling Club, who are always a constant source of help and support, and indeed, provided a number of prize winners on the awards night.