Cycling mourns loss

Irish cycling is in mourning following the sudden death on Wednesday of 61-year-old former top domestic rider Paddy Flanagan. The Kildare man was one of the most successful cyclists of his time, taking a slew of national championship medals on road, grass track, and in time trials and also competing abroad for Ireland.

As a former member of the NCF, Paddy Flanagan is probably best remembered for his dominating performances in their tour of Ireland, the Ras Tailteann. He won 11 stages between 1960 and 1976 and took overall victory three times. More impressively, he proved best in 1960 and 1964, then turned back the clock in 1975 to reclaim the winner's yellow jersey at the age of 36.

"I couldn't say words high enough to praise him," said another multiple Ras Tailteann victor Shay O'Hanlon. "We had a funny relationship, battling for 20 years, but the more we clashed the more we grew to like each other. He was one of those guys who was always having a go. Up until the last race he rode, he was a very aggressive rider; always attacking, but very cute and full of tricks too. Basically, a great cyclist and a very decent fellow."

Paddy Flanagan worked as a builder's labourer after his retirement from Irish Ropes, and also continued to cycle up until his death. He is survived by his wife Alice, sons Pat and Peter and daughters Caroline, Jan, Betsy and Susan.