Tragic Gavin Moore winning the Bann Valley Classic last year. Tributes have been paid to the 40-year-old father of two after he was killed out training (Photo with thanks to Bronagh Kirk and North Down CC)
Tributes paid to North Down CC’s Gavin Moore
A cyclist killed on a training ride yesterday afternoon has been named as Gavin Moore of North Down CC.
Tributes have been paid to the popular father of two, described by many as a “gentleman”.
Gavin (40) was with three other cyclists when their group was in collision with a car near Bangor, Co Down, at about 2pm yesterday.
He was comforted by those he was with until the paramedics arrived.
However, while rushed by ambulance to the Royal Victoria Hospital he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead.
One of the riders Gavin was with, Gareth Boyle, is seriously injured. Another, Keith Freel, suffered a head injury.
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Both were taken to hospital from the scene but their injuries are not life threatening.
A fourth rider, Rachy Sinnamon, was with the three injured men but she was uninjured.
She was able to comfort Gavin at the scene while they waited for the emergency services, with several people commenting on the strong role Rachy performed in very difficult circumstances.
At least one other cyclist had been with the four just minutes earlier. But he was off the back of the group at the time of the collision and watched on in horror.
The incident occurred on the Ards to Bangor road near Conlig. The driver of the vehicle, a 59-year-old, was arrested at the scene by officers from the PSNI.
Local media reports carried photos of the crash scene, with damage to the bonnet of the Hyundai and a smashed windscreen clearly visible.
The Belfast Telegraph reported that “several broken bikes lay strewn on the road at the scene”.
Cycling Ireland issued a statement which read: “Cycling Ireland offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to the family, friends and club mates of Gavin Moore, North Down CC, following a tragic road accident yesterday evening.
“Cycling Ireland would also like to wish club members Gareth Boyle and Keith Freel a full and fast recovery.”
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Sam Carson of North Down CC took to the club’s Facebook group last evening to bring the shocking news of Gavin’s death to his devastated club mates.
“It's with great regret the committee has to inform you of the passing of club and committee member Gavin Moore following an accident on the Ards to Bangor dual carriageway this afternoon,” he said in last evening’s post.
“Gareth Boyle and Keith Freel were also involved. Gareth suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries.
"Keith was given the Okay; just a very bad concussion. Rachy Sinnamon also involved but thankfully walked away.
“The NDCC committee send the condolences and sympathies to Gavin’s mother and father, partner Joanne, Gavin’s kids - Adam & Luke – and the whole family circle.”
There was an outpouring of shock and grief in messages below the statement; many of those who knew Gavin saying he was a gentleman who always had a smile on his face.
“Gavin was one of the first NDCC members I really got to know,” said one of hundreds of messages.
“He was a genuine gentleman and always there for advice and encouragement.
“I rode past Gav's group today and he shouted over to me, never thought it would be the last time I saw him.”
Another message said: “It is heartbreaking to hear the tragic news of Gavin's death and the injuries to his club mates.
“Gavin was relatively new to cycling but progressed quickly as a cyclist and was happy to put something back to our sport by taking an active role on the club committee.
“He was well liked by all who had the pleasure to ride with him and will be sadly missed. Condolences to Joanne and the whole family.”
Said another: “Such sad news. Such a lovely man. Always there for encouragement and chat.”
A pleasure to have cycled with
Another who had raced with Gavin recently described news of his death as “horrible”.
“It’s still hard to believe this… I had the pleasure of racing the Newry Three Day with Gavin in the same team. He will be truly missed. RIP big man, speedy recovery to everyone else involved.”
One woman who left a message simply said: “A pleasure to have cycled with you Gavin.”
Another man who cycled with him described as “too sad” Gavin’s death.
“Will miss the banter Gavin but we won't forget you. Much love and condolences to the family.”
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