Shock and sadness following sudden death of champion cyclist as tributes pour in
Craig Sweetman, 52, originally from Skerries in Co Dublin but late of Mornington in Co Meath, passed away suddenly at his home after taking ill on Sunday.
A death notice shared on RIP.ie states that he will be "sadly missed by his loving wife Gill, sons Toby and Tyler, parents Tony and Mona, brothers Jeff and Dale, sister Kadie, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, work colleagues and a large circle of friends especially those in the Irish Cycling Community."
Mr Sweetman, who worked as an airport policeman, was a leading and influential figure in the Irish cycling community and had been a member of Stamullen Road Club in Meath since he was 14 years old.
The father-of-two competed in cycling events in Ireland and abroad for over three decades and made more than 11 appearances in Rás Tailteann, an annual international cycling stage race held in Ireland. Mr Sweetman passed away on Sunday at the age of 52
Mr Sweetman was an extremely gifted cyclist who won a number of races at the height of his career, including the 2006 Leinster Road Race Championships, the Brendan Carroll Memorial and the Ballivor Grand Prix, while he also represented his country on many occasions.
The 52-year-old was still racing at a highly competitive level and was recently crowned a national masters champion.
Mr Sweetman's son Toby has followed in his father's footsteps and has developed into one of the leading lights in the Irish cycling scene, with the family celebrating just last week when the 18-year-old claimed a stunning stage win at the Junior Tour of Ireland while riding for the Irish Team.
Mr Sweetman's sudden death has sent shockwaves through the Irish cycling community, with heart-breaking tributes pouring in for the hugely popular figure.
In a message shared on social media, Lucan Cycling Road Club said: "We would like to send our deepest condolences to the Sweetman family. It was an absolute shock when we heard of Craig's passing. He was a gentleman and a fierce competitor on the bike.
"Some of our members have been racing against Craig for 30 years and they can all confess, he has cycling DNA in his blood. From club leagues to Rás stages he did it all. Age didn't keep him back and he kept racing hard always chasing that win, and man, he knew how to win races. He was an inspiration to young and old in the cycling community. Life is all about moments & It's been great to see his son Toby following in his footsteps with his very recent success in the Irish jersey. The apple didn't fall far from the tree.
"We will miss Craig. May he Rest in peace." Mr Sweetman represented Ireland on a number of occasions
Bear Cycling Club also paid an emotional tribute to the champion road racer in a message which read: "We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Sweetman family on the devastating loss of Craig. His passing has come as an absolute shock to us all, and we are profoundly saddened by this news.
"Craig was more than just a cyclist; he was a true gentleman and a formidable competitor whose passion for the sport was undeniable. He had cycling DNA in his blood. From club leagues to Rás stages, he did it all.
"Age was never a barrier for Craig; he continued to race with fierce determination, always chasing that win with an incredible drive and an innate understanding of how to cross the finish line first. He was, without a doubt, an inspiration to both young and seasoned cyclists within our community.
"Life is indeed about moments, and it has been a true joy to witness his son, Toby, follow in his footsteps, recently achieving success in the Irish jersey. It's clear the apple didn't fall far from the tree, and Craig's legacy will undoubtedly live on through Toby's achievements.
"We will dearly miss Craig—his presence, his competitive spirit, and his enduring love for cycling. May he rest in peace."
Mr Sweetman had been a member of the Dublin Airport Fire and Rescue Service for over 25 years, with his colleagues paying an emotional tribute to the popular father-of-two in a heart-breaking statement shared online.
"It's with deep sadness, we share the funeral details of our dear friend and colleague, Craig Sweetman," they said.
"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.
"Our hearts and thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time."
Mourners have also left tributes to the champion cyclist, with a close pal saying: "Sad to hear of Craig passing. My sincere sympathy to Gill, the boys and the family. Worked with Craig for many years and he was a true professional and a true gent. I never saw him in bad form and he always had a kind word for anyone he met. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a ainm."
Another person added: "Sincere condolences to the Sweetman family on Craigs untimely passing. It was a privilege to work with him , he was not only a champion cyclist but a champion bloke too."
While a third mourner said: "Shocked and saddened on the sudden passing of Craig, I have known Craig over 30 years through cycling and then working in DAA over the years, he was an absolute gentleman and his enthusiasm for cycling was unmatched. I was delighted to see Toby getting his stage win 2 weeks ago in the Junior Tour and I know how proud Craig was training with and following Tobys progress over the last few years."
Mr Sweetman will lie in repose at his home on from 5pm until 8pm on Wednesday evening, with removal on Thursday morning to St. Patrick's Church in Skerries arriving for 10am Mass followed by funeral to Dardistown Crematorium.
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