Orwell Wheelers is planning a morning spin and a guard of honour in club colours at the funeral of one of their own who has sadly lost his battle with illness; Keith Harte. The popular rider is pictured with son Thomas and wife Emma (Photo with thanks to Orwell Wheelers)
Having been shocked by news of the sudden death of Gerry McCabe from Dundalk just two weeks ago, Irish cycling was today mourning the passing of Keith Harte.
The popular Orwell Wheelers rider had been fighting cancer for some time but has now sadly lost that battle.
The club announced Keith’s passing this morning and its members plan to turn out to say a final goodbye in club colours on Wednesday.
“We are very sorry to say that last night our strong friend and clubmate Keith Harte passed away, ending a brave and determined battle against cancer,” said Orwell’s Brian McArdle on behalf of club.
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“Keith was well known and loved on both the leisure and racing sides of the club after joining in 2011.
“He was a fun-loving, positive presence on spins, and developed a strong sprint to earn an upgrade to A3 in his brief seasons as a racer. He described his time in Orwell as some of his happiest days.
Keith in full flight during the 2011 Orwell Randonnée (Photo with thanks to Orwell Wheelers)
“His positive outlook did not diminish with his cancer diagnosis, and he never stopped fighting or let the cancer keep him down.
“He planned a return to road racing even after his first back surgery, and trialled a handcycle after losing the use of his legs.
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“The largest gathering of Orwell ever for a fundraiser for Keith in 2015 showed the love members had for him, and the admiration for the courage he showed in his life.
“He remained an active member and supporter of the club even when off the bike, and will be deeply missed.
“Our condolences to his wife Emma, son Thomas, young daughter Sarah Jane and all his family and friends.
“Ken O'Neill has been a constant companion for Keith and his family over the last few years, and we extend particular sympathies to him.”
Keith, left, with the boys from Orwell after he had finished 3rd in the 2014 Roundwood GP (Photo with thanks to Orwell Wheelers)
The club is planning a guard of honour at Keith’s funeral mass in Foxrock, south Dublin, in Wednesday morning.
Details of Keith’s funeral can be accessed by following this link.
And for those planning to be part of the guard of honour, Orwell has some instructions which are available by following this link.
There is also a spin in his honour tomorrow morning, Sunday November 27th, and you can find details by following this link.
From all at stickybottle, we would like to extend our condolences to Keith’s wife Emma and the rest of his family and club mates.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
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