Tipperary cycling club recognised in Belgian St Patrick's Day celebrations

The town of Carrick-on-Suir and, in particular, the local cycling club Panduit Carrick Wheelers CC, received special recognition in Belgium on Sunday, March 16, as part of the St Patrick’s Day celebrations, known as the ‘Parade of Nations & Regions in Brussels’.

With this year’s parade embracing a cycling theme entitled “The Joy of Cycling in Ireland, in Europe and around the World is the joy of living”, Carrick-on-Suir, along with Panduit Carrick Wheelers CC, was recognised for its contribution to the sport of cycling and for its deep-rooted history in the sport, earning the town the title of “The Home of Irish Cycling”.

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A key moment of the event took place at the Grand-Place, where a delegation presented the Carrick-on-Suir Shamrock Bowl to the City of Brussels in a gesture of friendship and cultural exchange.

The ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Marian Harkin, former MEP and current TD, along with representatives of the Irish Embassy in Belgium.

Brussels’ St. Patrick’s Day celebrations featured marching bands, dancing, hurling displays, and various cultural presentations across the city’s landmarks to mark the occasion.

The recognition of Carrick-on-Suir during these festivities highlights the town’s strong international ties and its rich sporting and cultural legacy.

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Panduit Carrick Wheelers CC, founded in 1954, along with the town of Carrick-on-Suir, has produced some of Ireland’s top cyclists over the years, most notably Sean Kelly and Sam Bennett.

The club’s recognition on an international stage highlights its lasting impact on the sport.

Meanwhile, back home in Carrick-on-Suir, Panduit Carrick Wheelers CC were also in action at the Three County Hinterland Festival taking part in the parade on March 16, and on St Patrick’s Day, they hosted the annual Bobby Power Memorial race in Clonea.