Banbridge Cycling Club rounded off an excellent 2025 season with their Annual Awards and Social Evening held on Saturday, bringing together members, supporters and sponsors to celebrate a year of sporting excellence.

Club Chairman Aaron Wallace opened the evening with a review of the club’s achievements over the past year, highlighting the dedication of its riders, volunteers and sponsors who have contributed to a successful season both on and off the road.

Among the standout winners on the night was Mick Larkin, who emerged as the innovative rider of the year. Larkin claimed six trophies, including wins in four events, the Time Trial Best All Rounder title, and the Most Improved Rider award.

Mark Kendall also had a stellar season, claiming overall victory in the Club League, the Senior Points competition, and the Master’s Best All Rounder title. He also won the MAC 2-Up Time Trial series with teammate Dan Purdy.

The main highlight of the evening was the recognition of Banbridge CC team Ras Tailteann, who made a dream debut in the prestigious five-day international stages race. Competing as a team for the first time in the event, Banbridge CC took the overall Team Award for the County and Province teams. Their performance earned them the Tommy Evans Cup for International Performance of the Year – an especially significant accolade, as Evans himself had previously won the race in 1996.

The Towell Trophy, awarded to Club Person of the Year, went to Paul Hannigan, a familiar and much-appreciated presence at events around Ireland behind Banbridge CC members and competitors. Hannigan proved a popular winner of the award, rewarding his dedication to capturing the spirit of Banbridge CC through photography.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt tribute to longtime member Wilbur Aiken, who was presented with an honorary lifetime membership. Aiken, who joined the club in 1987, has served in various roles including Chairman, Secretary, Timekeeper, and President. His decades of service were greeted with a standing ovation, reflecting the deep respect and admiration held by the club’s membership.

A full list of winners from the night can be found below. A selection of photos from the night’s celebration can also be found on the club’s Facebook page.