There was widespread shock around the midlands when news broke on Saturday last, 2 April, that local man, Pat Coyle had died suddenly while participating in the Tour of Flanders Sportive in Belgium.
Pat, who was 56-years old, was a member of a well-known Coyle family from Belmont, Ballinea, Mullingar.
Pat died while taking part in the Tour of Flanders Sportive in Belgium on Saturday, following a suspected heart attack. It was a race Pat had eagerly participated in and enjoyed many times over the years. One of Pat’s sons, Alan, was with him during the cycling event.
Pat, who worked for many years as an electrician with the ESB, lived in Athlone, and was an active member of Shannonside Cycling Club and was deeply involved in developing cycling in Athlone. Mr. Coyle was always willing to give advice to new members of the club and always ensured young cyclists were able to attend and take part in races all over the country.
Cycling Ireland issued a statement paying tribute to him.
“Cycling Ireland would like to extend their condolences to the family of Pat Coyle of Shannonside CC, Athlone, who died at the Tour of Flanders Sportive in Belgium on Saturday, following a suspected heart attack. The tragedy occurred during the 227km event that attracts 16,000 riders, and is in its 25th year, an event in which he had participated many times. Mr Coyle had been an active member of Shannonside Cycling Club, who was particularly committed to the development of the club, having been a key organiser in events like the Operation Transformation cycle in Athlone in 2015. May he rest in peace.”
Locally, Joe Duffy of Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar, said, “Pat was a true gentleman and top cyclist who will be sadly missed by all his friends in Lakeside Wheelers, Mullingar. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends. RIP Pat.”
Others described Pat as the heart and soul of cycling in Athlone, while Mullingar man Mark Horohoe said, “A gentleman. One of the friendliest and most genuine people I’ve met on or off the bike. RIP”
Lakeside Wheelers PRO, Shay O’Toole added, “It is with great regret this week that we learned of the sad news of the passing of Mr Pat Coyle from Shannonside Cycling Club. Pat was very well known to many members of Lakeside Wheelers through his involvement with our neighbouring club for many years as he was one of the main organisers of its annual sportive known as, Tour of the Heartlands.
Pat died very tragically last Saturday doing what he loved best, riding his bike at the sportive version of the aforementioned Tour of Flanders in Belgium. This was Pat’s 14th time to participate in this great event but sadly, he suffered a heart attack on the Oude Kwaremont segment of the route and died. One of the true gentlemen of cycling in the midlands, Pat always had a kind and encouraging word for cyclists of all abilities but especially for beginners. Sincere condolences to the Coyle family from everybody at Lakeside Wheelers Mullingar. May he rest in peace.”
Deepest sympathy is extended to the family of Pat Coyle, especially his wife, Angela (née Lacey, Green Road, Mullingar) and his three sons, Eamon, Alan and Darren and to Pat’s brothers, George and Damien and all family members, relatives and friends.
At time of going to print, there were no funeral arrangements available, with hopes his remains will be returning later this week.
