Tributes following sudden death of cycling champion, Craig Sweetman

Son Toby remembers the man who shaped him 'on the bike and in life'

Cyclist Toby Sweetman has paid an emotional tribute to his father and inspiration, fellow cyclist Craig Sweetman, who died suddenly at the weekend, aged 52, having taken ill suddenly on Saturday evening.

Craig, who was a member of Stamullen Road Club since his early teens, had raced well into his veteran years and was continuing to compete strongly this season. In a number of those recent events, he raced alongside Toby, a member of VC Glendale.

The Sweetman family enjoyed a fantastic day on the Junior Tour of Ireland the week before last when Toby (18) won a stage while racing for the Irish team.

Craig had been at the Peter Bidwell race in Donore on Saturday evening and while he was not racing, due to an injury, he was among those spectating. Later he took ill and passed away.

He was a stalwart of the Irish road scene, with a racing career marked by a rare longterm committment that included 11 appearances in Rás Tailteann. He was also an international rider, making his debut at the Tour of Hokkaido in Japan in 2002.

This morning (Tuesday), Toby posted on social media: "Last Saturday, July 20th I lost my best friend, my role model, the man who shaped the person and athlete I’ve become.

He wasn’t just my dad — he was the real reason I fell in love with cycling. From my very first ride with him, he was right there beside me — encouraging me, challenging me, and believing in me long before I believed in myself. He taught me how to ride, how to work hard, and how to keep pushing no matter how hard the climb — on the bike and in life.

"Everything I’ve achieved in this sport, and everything I’ve become as a person, is all because of him. His guidance, patience, and constant support are the foundation of me. Everything I did…was because of him. Losing him feels like losing the very heart of who I am. Dad I promise you I will carry your spirit with me in every ride, every race, and every moment where I push through because I know you would want me to.

“I’d like to take this chance invite you all on behalf of me, my strong amazing mum and my little brother Tyler to honour dad's memory and celebrate the legendary, joyful person he was and always will be, on 24th July at 10am at St Patrick’s Church, Skerries.

Toby continued: "Dad always hated dull clothing so I kindly ask that you wear a cycling jersey or colorful clothing to his funeral instead of the traditional black attire. Thank you dad, for absolutely everything — for the love, the laughs, the lessons, and the rides. To say I am your son is a honour. I love you so much I’ll miss you every single day, and I’ll never stop trying to make you proud. From now on I’ll ride in memory of you, of the legendary person you are. Ride in peace dad. I love you always"

Craig won a large number of races at the height of his career, including being crowned men’s senior Leinster road race champion. He was still placing in races this year and two years ago won the Masters 50 title at Masters National Road Race Championships in Clonard.

He had remained very commited to cycling down the years, and passed on much of his vast knowledge to younger riders and those in the early stages of their racing careers.

Kay Howard, who with her late husband, Gabriel, were central figures in Stamullen Road Club, told cycling website, Stickybottle.com, that there were “no words to describe how we in Stamullen Road Club are feeling following the sudden death of Craig Sweetman, something we will find hard to ever get over. For almost 40 years Craig has been a member of the Club and was always like another member of our family."

Living in Skerries, and late of Mornington, Craig worked with the Dublin Airport Police and Fire Authority.

His colleagues posted: "Since joining our force in September 1998, Craig was a shining example of professionalism, dedication, and kindness. His thoughtful nature and attention to detail set a high standard for everyone he worked alongside. This dedication was also mirrored in his love for cycling over the years he worked with us both nationally and internationally.

"Craig was more than a colleague—he was a devoted husband, a loving father and son, and a loyal friend. His absence is deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him."

Craig is survived by his wife, Gill; sons Toby and Tyler; parents, Tony and Mona; brothers, Jeff and Dale; sister, Kadie; extended family, work colleagues and a large circle of friends especially those in the Irish cycling community.

He is reposing at his home on Wednesday 23rd July from 5pm to 8pm.

Removal is on Thursday 24th July to St Patrick's Church, Skerries, for 10am Mass, followed by funeral to Dardistown Crematorium.