AGM 2023

The CuChulainn Cycling Club AGM took place at the Lisdoo Arms on the 24th of October, chaired by the ever-efficient Francis Lafferty. The meeting started with Francis welcoming everyone and thanking them for their attendance and continuous support for club activities throughout the year. He reflected also on the role the club and its members played in the final stage of this year’s Ras which finished in Blackrock. He then asked that all present take a moment to remember those club members that unfortunately and untimely are no longer with us. 

Deirdre Armstrong, the club secretary, delivered the secretary's report. She outlined the various events and activities that the club had organized throughout the year, including charity rides and races. The club’s main leisure event “The Tour of Louth “ attracted 400 entrants while the Womens Lap of Louth had over 200 participants. These events continue to put CuChulainn CC well up on the most desired sportives in the country and always receive great feedback from those taking part. Deirdre noted the support for all members in making these a great success. Deirdre also noted that the club's membership had remained steady since the COVID-19 pandemic, with a current total of 295 members of which 44 were new members and 20% female. Charities supported during the year included North Louth Hospice, Rape Crisis Northeast (RCNE) and SAFE Castlebellingham. 

Jason Boyle, the club's treasurer, then presented the financial report for the year. He highlighted that the club had managed its finances well and was in a healthy financial position. Jason also mentioned that the club had made significant charity donations to local charities, which had been well received and had helped to strengthen the club's ties within the community including significant fundraising for Club member Dickie Newell.

Reports from each section were then presented by Daniel Lambe (Leisure), Sandra O’Hagan (Off-Road), Jackie Healy (Underage) and Road League.

Election of officers was held and Francis Lafferty was elected as Club Chairperson, Jason Boyle returned as Club Treasurer. Francis thanked outgoing PRO Liam Dolan, Underage Rep Karl Dolan and Child Safety Officer Lisajane O’Rourke for their many years of service.

Some notable motions adopted by attendees was the early notification of the dates of club events so that members can nominate their preferred event to marshal. The safety of participants in Club events is paramount and marshals play a vital role. In recognition of this, it was also agreed that there should be a prize draw for those marshalling along with the customary marshals’ run the day prior to the event. The club will also continue to sponsor the marshal’s run coffee stop.

There will also be a new event on the 2024 calendar in partnership with Setanta Triathlon Club – The Sarah Fagan Memorial Cycle in aid of Kevin Bell Repatriation Fund on March 24th 2024.  

The chairperson then concluded the meeting by thanking all the club's sponsors for their continued support. He emphasized that the club's success and growth were due in large part to the generosity of its sponsors and the cycling community in the region.  He encouraged all members to continue supporting club sponsors whenever possible. He also expressed his gratitude to the Lisdoo Arms for hosting the event.