It’s been another busy and successful year for Banbridge CC, and without the commitment and passion of our members we undoubtedly wouldn’t see the same level of success within the club. Each year there are always a core handful of members who go above and beyond make the difference in a good club and a great club.
The Belmont Cup recognises the Club Member of the Year and has been awarded to many stalwarts of Banbridge CC over the years. This year we’ve had 4 nominations for their input and value to the club in 2017, all of whom have been listed below with a small example of their contributions.
PAUL & TONI HANNIGAN
While individually both Toni and Paul hold very busy roles for Banbridge CC; Toni as Club Press Officer and Paul as Club Secretary, collectively as a team they do so much more. Whether it be travelling the length and breadth of Ireland to support riders and take photos, or just to assist riders travelling to events by providing transport, packed lunches and roadside support on race day, they regularly go over and above what is asked of them.
It would be unfair to cover their nomination without a mention of their always present loyal companion, Barney, Banbridge CC’s most famous canine supporter!
TONI HANNIGAN
Following the vacancy of the role for the 2017 season, Toni agreed to step into the position of Club Press Officer. An important role for the club; pushing the news of the many successes and accomplishments of Banbridge CC members along with also reporting from the regular club racing scene.
Toni has taken to the role in her stride, building relations with the local press contacts and ensuring the appropriate coverage is published week after week.
In addition to this Toni is heavily active in the Open Road Race Committee and also organises the club’s annual Prize dinner.
AARON WALLACE
Aaron heads up the Open Road Race Committee whose promotions have gone from strength to strength. In 2017 the committee promoted a total of 5 events on behalf of the club. The highest profile event of 2017 season for the club was undoubtedly the John Beggs Memorial which is the only Cycling Ireland National Road Series event in Ulster. For this year the event was also televised, showcasing the event and Banbridge CC to a bigger audience than ever before.
In addition to this Aaron also organises the annual table quiz and his latest ‘project’ will see all club members issued with individual customised ‘ICE’ contact ID tags which provide vital information in the event of an emergency.
CHRISTINA TOWELL
Christina has cemented her place as a highly invaluable and dependable member within the club over the last few years. Working with the Open Race Organisation as a Photo Finish Operator and Chief Judge and bringing those skills back to the club racing scene where she collates the results each week and manages and records the club league results.
Week in, week out, working in the background performing the tasks that many may take for granted, but take time and know how to complete Christina is either behind a lens or behind keyboard identifying riders and calculating positions.
Voting on the Club Member of the year will take place at the monthly club meeting on the evening of Tuesday 3rd October. Additional nominations are also welcomed if you believe a member deserves recognition for their role within Banbridge CC.
The winner of the Belmont Cup will be announced at the Annual Club prize dinner on Friday 3rd November at the Belmont Hotel.
