Banbridge CC hold their annual dinner

A large cross section of club members and friends gathered with guest of honour, Ray Cochrane, to acclaim the winners of the clubs array of glittering trophies before turning their attention to the delightful four course dinner provided by hosts for the evening – The Anglers Rest.

Chairman Charlie McConville – MC for the evening - took the opportunity before the presentation commenced to remind the audience of the long list of notable achievements of club members during what was undoubtedly an outstandingly successful season for Banbridge CC.

Charlie spoke proudly of the success enjoyed by the under age and junior contingents which provides so much hope for the future of the club both on and off road. He also paid tribute to the efforts of the Senior riders currently dominating the cyclo cross championships and applauded the efforts of the open road racing competitors, including the Over 50’s team, who all represented the club in events throughout the Province.

Charlie thanked former world class jockey Ray Cochrane for agreeing to present the trophies reminding those present that here we had a rider who has won three of the major British Classic Horse Races – the Epsom Derby, 1000 Guineas Stakes and the Oakes no less!

Some will also remember that he received the Queen’s Commendation for Bravery after saving the life of another world famous jockey Frankie Dettori following a plane crash in 2000.

Ray’s brother Ian is an enthusiastic member of the club’s Over 50’s road racing team and he tells me that Ray is an even stronger bike rider than he!

Following the presentation and dinner members now relaxed and fully satiated ,congregated in small groups to relive events and experiences of the past season and look forward to great 2013 season ahead.

Roger Wins Again at Moira. - Banbridge CC ace Roger Aiken won the fourth round of the Ulster Cyclo cross Championship organised by Dromara CC and held in Moira Demesne

Once again Roger proved untouchable  riding clear of everyone to emerge a well-deserved victor ahead of Newry Wheelers vet Peter McConville and the National Veteran CX Champion Jonny Bogues of Phoenix CC.

Bad luck overtook Matt Adair who suffered from mechanical problems which deprived him of a near certain second place finish.

Banbridge rider David Montgomery continued his fine form winning the Unplaced Junior prize..