It is with deep sadness that British Cycling has learned of the death of former board member and Scottish Cycling president, Gerry McDaid.
A hugely influential figure, a UCI Commissaire and tutor - and was also one of the very first UCI anti-doping inspectors, testing riders at races such as the Tour de France.
Originally from Glasgow, he started cycling in the Bellisle Cycling Club and soon became well-known and respected to many across the world for his work and dedication. His exceptional service to the sport led to British Cycling naming him as one of the first 50 inductees to its Hall of Fame in 2009.
British Cycling president Bob Howden said:
“Everyone at British Cycling is extremely saddened to hear of Gerry’s passing. A member of British Cycling’s Hall of Fame, he was a key figure within the sport in this country and we owe him a debt of gratitude for his tireless work as an international commissaire, board member and president of Scottish Cycling.
“Gerry never failed to leave an impression with his combination of forensic knowledge of the sport and his sharpened wit, leaving many of us with our own ‘Gerry stories’. For many years he was a stalwart of National Council as a delegate for the Scottish Cycling Union, as Scottish Cycling was latterly known. It’s perhaps poignant therefore that we should receive news of Gerry’s passing just after closing this year’s National Council, alas too late for us to toast his passing but I suspect that there will be many a dram taken in honour of Gerry and for many years to come.
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends.”
Alasdair MacLennan, Scottish Cycling president, said:
“Scottish Cycling has a lot to thank Gerry for; when somebody needed help he was never far behind to offer a hand. He was not only one of the world’s top Commissaires, but also spent time on the board of British Cycling, the UCI Management committee and of course had the role of Scottish Cycling president. He helped the sport at all levels and did it with a smile every time. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”
