When the sunset calls
“Sport binds people better than almost any other form of social interaction.” That was a phrase I once came across. Whilst having a sport in common is a huge factor in building a friendship, there is an extra dimension added when you suffer alongside someone on a bike. In the midst of physical pain and suffering, barriers descend and you get to see a persons true character, what they are all about.
There is a small group of cyclists in Clonmel called the Dawn Raiders. They are neither a club, nor an organisation. They are just a number of like minded individuals who enjoy cycling their bikes at a very early hour of the morning. All year round weekday spins start at 6 or 6.15am and they can be as late as 7am at weekends. Meeting at that early hour facilitates being in work ahead of time during the week, and doesn’t impact family time at the weekends. Everyone who turns up at that hour is in good form starting out and great form by the end of the spin. The Dawn Raiders are an upbeat, positive group and this has led to close personal friendships being formed. I am privileged to be part of that group.
Last week, a key member of the Dawn Raiders passed away in a tragic accident but his impact will last forever.
Andrew Kearney came late to cycling. Rallying was his first passion, and one that he was very accomplished in. It was always enlightening to hear Andrew compare descending Tickincor on his bike with a stage of the Circuit of Ireland. He had natural ability to pick the perfect line through the corners, most of the time. He was well able to recover when things went slightly astray too. On one of his first outings with the group he arrived at Harneys Cross having touched 80kph on the descent with some heather clinging to his hip. Cool as a breeze he mentioned that he may have overcooked it slightly approaching Powers the Pot, but just about managed to get the bike back in line. Typical of Andrew he kept his cool, didn’t panic and just kept on going.
As MD of Sepam, an international Engineering and Construction company, Andrew had to travel abroad very often, so would miss out on many mid-week training spins at certain times of year. Having to entertain clients also meant that he got to eat quite well. The combination of the two sometimes meant that Andrew would be on the back foot when it came to some longer more difficult spins over the Comeragh Mountains. However, it was on those occasions that we got to see just how much grit and determination Andrew possessed. His never quit attitude enabled him to really go very deep and come out the other side of an all out effort with a smile on his face.
Just a few months ago, the Sarah Dillon cycle was a great example of Andrews character. On a wet and windy day, a day that followed Storm Jorge, Andrew cycled the 10k from home to the start. Having been away with work for the previous few weeks he was trying to get a few extra kilometres in. The route itself was up and down all day with a really strong headwind all the way from Cashel to Ardfinnan. Everyone was suffering and as we passed right by Andrews house 10k from the finish, I was convinced that he would turn in for home. Most would have. But that would not have been Andrew, a man who always saw everything through to the end. He persevered and cycled on into the finish, where we enjoyed a hot coffee with a few more Dawn Raiders. Then Andrew faced the road home on his own, back out against the wind. That day he turned a corner. From then on he was stronger on the bike and was visibly more at ease no matter how difficult the terrain. A fortnight later we went over The Vee and Mount Melary and Andrew was cruising.
Growing up on the mountain road in Clonmel Andrew, along with his brothers would often see Sean Kelly pass by their door on winter training spins. They all had an interest in cycling but Rallying was their sport of choice. Andrew mentioned to me one day that he would love to meet Sean sometime, and perhaps cycle with him. A few weeks ago I called Andrew to say that Sean was going to be around for a cycle and that he would be very welcome to join us. He was delighted and thanked me profusely. A few days later I got another call from Andrew to say that unfortunately he would not be able to make it. His daughters had a rugby match and he wanted to be there to support them and cheer them on. Family was everything to Andrew and he put Audrey and the girls above all else, even a chance to cycle with his boyhood hero. This was another example of the character of the man.
Whilst the sun has now set on Andrews time here on earth, he has left behind an enormous legacy. Everyone who ever got to know him is the better for it. He lived a very fulfilling life in a relaxed and considerate way. His priorities of family, friendship and fun were an example to us all. His sincerity and his smile will never be forgotten.
Until we meet again,
Barry & your fellow Dawn Raiders
14 COMMENTS
Aidan O'Connell
A fabulous tribute to a really great guy, very touched by it, heartwarming
Love Dad
This is very nice it reflects the real character of Andrew , his true grit , friendship along with his family values
John Bayly
Well written and summed up a gentleman.
Brian O Sullivan
Well done Barry in capturing Andrew’s love of cycling and the true gentleman that he was in all walks of life
Raymond Heney
A touching tribute to Andrew & a powerful message for us to contemplate.
Dr Beatty Crawford
Beautiful tribute to a lovely man.
Michael sullivan
Very well put together well done Barry .
Richard Roche Nagle
Well done
Beautiful tribute
Frank Wall
Great piece on Andrew. You managed to capture his character, virtues and all he stood for.
Spotá
What a great piece Barry a great tribute to Andrew and to your skills as a blogger and his friend very impressed
Mike Pears
Andrew was a great friend, a gentleman and fabulous family man.
This is a great story very well written which reflects on his character and love of being with his friends.
Mike Pears, Houston, Texas
Neil Martin
Great piece Barry…captures the very spirit of the man …and of how our great sport breeds lifelong memories and friendships.
Steve
I didn’t know Andrew, but it sounds like he was a great guy!
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