Today the British cycling community bids farewell to Richie Haynes, former Chair of British Cycling’s Racing Committee, following his passing on Thursday 8 April 2021.

Richie was a hugely influential and well-regarded member of the British racing scene, supporting it through a wide variety of roles through his life. These include event organiser, official, anti-doping officer, UCI International Commissaire and member of the UCI Youth Commission, and he enjoyed fulfilling a number of these roles alongside his late wife, Elaine.

In the late-1980s and 1990s he played a key role in shaping the future direction of British Cycling, and from his position on the restructured Board he helped to modernise the organisation’s coaching and finance procedures, paving the way for the unprecedented success which has followed in the decades since.

Until recently Richie continued to make the weekly journey from his home in Sheffield to the Manchester Regional Track League meetings, where he supported as an official.

He will be fondly remembered for his commitment, kindness and good humour, and it is clear from the tributes we have seen over recent weeks that so many benefitted from his sage advice, willingness to help and unrivalled passion for our sport.

The thoughts of everybody at British Cycling are with Richie’s two daughters, wider family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.