Tag: Sport

Local focus on music line-up for Edinburgh’s raceday

Prestigious event calls on racegoers to get suited and booted for dancing 

A TRIO of popular bands will ensure excitement levels at one of Scotland’s most anticipated racedays are kept high once on-track competition comes to a close. 

Musselburgh Racecourse has unveiled the musical line-up set to get the Edinburgh Cup crowd jumping, featuring popular local and Scottish talent. 

Taking to the stage will be Edinburgh-based bands The Zebra Three and Chameleon Lady, who will help get racegoers moving and singing along at the After-Race Party. Completing the line-up will be The Soundtrax, one of Scotland’s most popular party bands. 

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “This year’s Edinburgh Cup is a real celebration of all things Edinburgh. 

“We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the racecourse, and with such great musical talent on display, The Edinburgh Cup promises to be full of entertainment and one not to miss. 

“The bands offer a wide and entertaining range of music that we think those attending will love. We can’t wait to see the performers take to the stage for an hour after the last race takes place and provide some excellent music.” 

Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course features again this year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail fans to match the high-quality racing on display. 

Along with tasty refreshments, those attending can expect a celebration of Edinburgh’s best culinary delights to go with the  7 thrilling races, with a total of £139,000 up for grabs in prize money. 

Revellers are also being encouraged to dress to impress as a host of photo opportunities are located around the racecourse, with prizes up for grabs for people who share their images on social media. 

Headlining the after-party will be folk rock band, Chameleon Lady, who is fronted by singer Cameron Middlemass. 

Speaking on playing at the event, Cameron said: “To be asked to headline the After-Racing Party is a privilege, we’re excited and looking forward to performing. 

“It’s our first proper headline gig at Musselburgh Racecourse and we’re excited, the punters are great so it will be a good Saturday. 

Speaking on why people should come to the raceday, Cameron added: “Musselburgh Racecourse has more of a community vibe, so much is going on with food and bars, if you’re someone who isn’t that big on racing there is so much there anyway for you to be excited by.” 

High-energy band The Soundtrax band members have also spoken about their excitement to play at The Edinburgh Cup. The band’s singer, Angus Johnston, said: “We are super excited to be performing for the Musselburgh crowd. 

“Getting to perform for big crowds on big occasions is what every musician aspires to achieve. Couple that with what we are sure will be an electric atmosphere, thanks to some top-class racing, and it should be an amazing day. 

“Our music is all energy, we are an out and out party band, and our goal is always to get people dancing. If you fancy a boogie today, then come and boogie with us!” 

The Soundtrax guitarist Jim O’Neil added: “We’re going to get off the stage into the crowd, onto the dance floor and dance with people, we’ll get conga lines on the go, and it will be maximum party mode. 

“Days like this at the races are the best kind of gigs, they are just the most fun.” 

Returning to the stage will be Dalkeith based The Zebra Three, who will kick up some nostalgia as they play pop rock and rare cheese from the 60’s and 70’s. 

Singer and guitarist James Mackintosh said: “We’re delighted to be performing at such a great scene, it’s always a great atmosphere, especially if the weather is good, which makes for a great day. 

“It’s all about the atmosphere, when people come to the races, everyone is in a good mood. 

The band also comprises of Kenny Hutchison on bass and vocals, along with his son Robbie Hutchison who plays on drums. 

Speaking on the father-son duo playing together, James said: “Robbie is a very accomplished drummer, it’s just great that he wants to play with two older guys!” 

The Zebra Three will be kicking off the day between 11:30 to 13:05, followed by The Soundtrax between races from 13:20 to 16:40 and Chameleon Lady headlining the After-Party following the last race, from between 16:55-18:00. 

Revellers can benefit from £5 saving per person when tickets are purchased before 12pm on 2nd June, with gate admission costing £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult. 

Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm. 

Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing seasons, including weekend, midweek, and evening. 

For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit: 

https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/the-edinburgh-cup-2023

The Undertaker comes to Scotland

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW COMES TO LONDON, WOLVERHAMPTON, MANCHESTER AND GLASGOW THIS JULY

WWE® (NYSE: WWE) has announced that the critically acclaimed UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will return to the UK this July debuting in London, Wolverhampton, Manchester and Glasgow ahead of Money In The Bank. 

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW will feature “The Phenom” in an intimate setting, sharing never-before-heard stories from his Hall of Fame career and taking questions from the WWE Universe in attendance. Since its premiere, the show has sold out venues in Nashville, Philadelphia, Boston, San Antonio, Montreal, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Cardiff. 

UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW heads to the following UK cities this July:

  • Saturday, July 1, 2023 – Indigo at The O2, London
  • Sunday, July 2, 2023 – The Civic at The Halls, Wolverhampton
  • Monday, July 3, 2023 – Albert Hall, Manchester
  • Tuesday, July 4, 2023 – O2 Academy, Glasgow

Tickets for UNDERTAKER 1 deadMAN SHOW are available on presale this Wednesday, May 31 at 10 a.m. BST exclusively to O2 customers and WWE fans who sign up at https://www.wwe.com/undertaker-uk-tour-2023.

General tickets are available next Friday, June 2 at 10 a.m. BST from AEGpresents.co.uk

A limited number of VIP tickets, which includes premier seating and a meet-and-greet with The Undertaker, will also be available for each show.

The O2 in London hosts two nights of WWE action with SmackDown live on Friday, June 30, followed by MoneyIn The Bank the next night on Saturday, July 1. This marks the first time ever that SmackDown will broadcast live and in primetime from the UK at 8pm local.

Money In The Bank marks the first WWE Premium Live Event to be held in London in over two decades.

Fore! Strachan House residents get in the swing at Ratho Park

Residents, David Leseur and Jimmy Main at Strachan House had always wanted to want to walk the fairways again and show us they still have what it takes from the Tee Box. So staff at the home made their wish a reality with their Gone Fishing 23 project.

Both residents has lived at Strachan House for several years and are popular with staff and residents alike.

Mandy, Head of Activities, said: “We first realised that Jimmy and David had this one passion in common. After becoming friends in the same home we thought: Why make this a moment for one when we can have two special moments?

“So the staff took their project idea out into the local community. Immediately Robert Dobbie, Club Manager/Secretary of Ratho Park Golf Club, got in touch to offer the club’s support in helping us achieve these two gents dream.

“Robert said he would  delighted to be a part of making their wish a reality, as he knew how much it meant to them being keen golfers. Ratho Golf Club have been amazing and pulled out all the stops to ensure David and Jimmy had an unforgettable experience.”

Their families all arrived a little early to the course to see the surprised smiles on their loved ones faces. 

In response to this wonderful surprise, David was in shock as we pulled up onto the clubs grounds and said: “I was on the verge of tears.

“It is such an amazing feeling to experience the golf course again. To do it with a friend too meant we were in for a good old lad’s afternoon of fun and laughter. What an amazing time we both had.”

Gordon Philp General Manager at the home, said: “We want everyone we care for to know how important they are to us here at Strachan House and our Gone Fishing 23 project demonstrates this through our person centred delivery of care and wellbeing.

“It was so nice to see how happy David and Jimmy was – and the staff loved being a part of this as well.”

Strachan House care home is run by Barchester Healthcare, one of the UK’s largest care providers, which is committed to delivering personalised care across its care homes and hospitals. Strachan House provides residential care, nursing care and dementia care for 83 beds residents from respite care to long term stays.

All roads lead to Scotland as 2023 UCI Cycling Worlds announce further road route details

Lochs, castles, iconic monuments, and stunning towns and cities from across Scotland will provide the perfect backdrop for 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships as further details of the road routes are unveiled.

This announcement builds on the initial overview of road routes revealed last September during the 2022 UCI Road World Championships in Wollongong, Australia. It includes new details and full routes for the road races (Men Elite, Women Elite and Men Under 23), Individual Time Trials (all categories) and Team Time Trial Mixed Relay.

Tuesday’s announcement also unveils the first details of the route for the UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships that will take place in Dumfries and Galloway, including the Road Race, Individual Time Trial and Team Relay.

Road races and Team Time Trial Mixed Relay

Throughout these events, the world’s best cyclists will savour some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery, with racing taking place across the country.

The Balmoral Hotel clock tower and Princes Street seen from Calton Hill

The Men Elite road race takes in Edinburgh Castle and Arthur’s Seat from its start in the capital on Sunday 6 August, before heading north across the Firth of Forth via the iconic Queensferry Crossing, then heading west through Fife towards Clackmannanshire, Falkirk and Stirling, passing near world-renowned landmarks including  the Kelpies, the Falkirk Wheel, Carron Valley and the Crow Road, before turning towards Glasgow and the specially designed finishing circuit, looping through the west end to the city centre for a spectacular finish alongside George Square.

The Helix, Home of the Kelpies. Scotland

The Women Elite and Men Under 23 road races will also finish on the Glasgow city circuit, though starting on the bonnie banks of Loch Lomond at Balloch, weaving through West and East Dunbartonshire en route via the Crow Road to the finish line in George Square.

The Men Under 23 road race takes place on Saturday 12 August with the Women Elite road race, which includes the Women Under 23 category, closing this inaugural and history making competition on Sunday 13 August.

In addition, the Men and Women Junior road races and the Team Time Trial Mixed Relay will start and finish on the Glasgow city circuit on Saturday 5 August and Tuesday 8 August respectively.

Individual Time Trials

Stirling and its surrounding area will host the Individual Time Trials for all categories, with competition beginning on Wednesday 9 August and continuing across three days until Friday 11 August.

Riders will set off from the King and Queens Knot in the shadow of Stirling Castle on a fast course that will take them, through the flats of the River Forth to the west across the countryside, before heading back towards Stirling city centre, and finishing on Stirling Castle esplanade.

Para-cycling road

Dumfries and Galloway will welcome the world’s best para-cyclists for four days as they host the para-cycling road competition at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

Drumlanrig Castle is situated on the Queensberry Estate in Dumfries and Galloway. Part of the South West Coastal 300 route.

The region, which lays claim to introducing the first pedal-driven bicycle to the world in 1839, will see athletes competing on single bikes, tandems, tricycles and hand-cycles for the UCI World Championship titles across the varied para-cycling sport classes and the right to wear the coveted rainbow jersey.

Competition will start with Individual Time Trials on Wednesday 9 August and will finish with road races on Saturday 12 August. The routes, which take advantage of Dumfries and Galloway’s stunning cycling terrain, have been designed in conjunction with local partners to showcase the region and present a fitting challenge to the athletes.

Teams will then travel to Glasgow for the Team Relay, which will take place on Sunday 13 August.

Full details for each event, including routes and technical information can be found in the Notes to Editors alongside links to course maps on the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships website. Please note the full course details for the Gran Fondo will be announced in due course.

The 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships will bring together 13 existing UCI World Championships into a new mega event in Glasgow and across Scotland from 3 – 13 August.

Picture by Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com 10/08/2019 Cycling – Women’s Tour of Scotland 2019 – Stage 2 Glasgow to Perth – The peloton roll out of George Square, Glasgow.

2023 UCI Cycling World Championships Chair Paul Bush OBE said: “The announcement of further details for road races and the unveiling of the para-cycling road routes for the first time is another exciting milestone as we continue the final countdown to the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships this August.

“The routes will take in some of the country’s most iconic cities and countryside, providing a spectacular backdrop to the action taking place on road and showcasing why Scotland is the perfect stage for events.”

David Lappartient, President of the Union Cycliste Internationale said: “Today’s announcement detailing the road and para-cycling road routes confirms that the competitions will be spectacular.

“Challenging from a sporting point of view, the routes will also highlight Scotland’s wonderful scenery and rich history. We have all the ingredients for intense and sensational racing, and I cannot wait to witness the action unfold as the athletes battle for glory at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.”

Culture Secretary Angus Robertson said: “It’s fantastic to see just how many communities across Scotland will play their part by hosting the road races for this year’s UCI Cycling World Championships.

“The routes showcase the best of Scotland to both visitors and those watching from home. Scotland’s breath-taking views and iconic landmarks will provide a great backdrop for the drama of the races. I would encourage all those who can do so to get out and see this world-class sporting action right on your doorstep.”

Picture by Simon Wilkinson/SWpix.com – 12/08/2018 – Cycling – Glasgow 2018 European Championships Road Race – Glasgow, Scotland – Matteo Trentin of Italy celebrates.

Leader of Glasgow City Council, Councillor Susan Aitken, said: “We are excited to see the full road race routes now announced for the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships.

“Glasgow’s iconic George Square, in the heart of the city centre, will provide the exciting, fast finishing straight for most of the Elite races, and before that the athletes will take in laps of the city centre circuit designed to be technically challenging, while showcasing the city to the global tv audience.”

“These races will be a real highlight of our sporting calendar with stars from across the world competing, and of course including these events as part of the competition schedule gives local, national and international sports fans and visitors a fantastic opportunity to see elite riders race past their doorsteps, this summer – for free.”

With something for everyone to enjoy, the 2023 UCI Cycling Worlds will feature 13 high-adrenaline, exciting UCI World Championships including Track and Para-cycling Track at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, BMX Racing at Glasgow BMX Centre, BMX Freestyle (Park and Flatland) and Trials at Glasgow Green, Indoor Cycling (artistic cycling and cycle-ball) at the Emirates Arena, Mountain Bike Cross-Country, and Marathon in Glentress Forest, Tweed Valley. Mountain Bike Downhill in Fort William and Road and Para-cycling Road across Scotland.

Tickets are on sale now from as little as £8, with concessions from £5, plus there are many free events to watch throughout the Championships.

Edinburgh Cup returns with delights on and off the track

No long faces at Musselburgh Racecourse ahead of sensational raceday

THE COUNTDOWN is on to one of the most prestigious events in the Scottish racing calendar which promises a bumper offering for revellers both on and off the track.

With over £135,000 in the prize pot, The Edinburgh Cup Raceday sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, will take place on Derby Day on 3 June and will feature two of the most valuable races staged at Musselburgh Racecourse.

The event commonly referred to as ‘Edinburgh’s raceday’ is a dedicated celebration of the vibrant capital city with attendees getting an opportunity to enjoy a day packed full of entertainment and an array of Scotland’s best street food offerings to indulge in.

Edinburgh Gin’s long-term partnership with the East Lothian course has seen activities build year on year – with the upcoming 2023 event providing many an experience for gin and cocktail-fans to match the high-quality racing on display.

As well as eight-person gin domes and specially created drinks at bars around the course, the Edinburgh Gin tipple trailer will debut slushies alongside more traditional drinks and botanical-inspired cocktails.

Aisling Johnston, Commercial Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “Edinburgh Gin is a fitting partner to make one of the summer season’s social and sporting highlights.

“Revellers will be able to try the very best gin the capital has to offer while enjoying the racing and day’s festivities – which includes the Epsom Derby.

“The partnership matches Edinburgh Gin’s innovative and creative approach to gin production with our ambition to continually break down barriers, and we’re excited to showcase the best Musselburgh Racecourse and Edinburgh Gin have to offer on this exciting date in the summer Flat season.”

With the sought-after Edinburgh Gin domes already sold out for the Edinburgh Cup racegoers, visitors are being urged to book tickets now, with those booking before midnight on the 2 June saving £5 per person.

Aisling Johnston added: “Edinburgh Gin is a well-loved brand, and we believe its presence will bring an even greater sense of fun to events for guests by incorporating competitions and novelty features into the raceday.

“We look forward to welcoming the crowds to Musselburgh Racecourse on 3 June to enjoy what promises to be a spectacular day with a G&T in hand.”

Neil Boyd, Managing Director at Edinburgh Gin said: “Edinburgh Gin is delighted to once again sponsor the esteemed Edinburgh Cup at Musselburgh Racecourse, a wonder-filled day out for all concerned.

“We are very proud of our Edinburgh roots; our distillery lies in the heart of this great city and we continue to support local events that bring people together in the spirit of good fun and friendly competition.

“We will be raising a glass on 3June to the Edinburgh Cup and an exciting raceday ahead.”

Bill Farnsworth, Manager at Musselburgh Racecourse said: “The Edinburgh Cup is always a fantastic day of celebrations for everyone.

“The partnership between Edinburgh Gin and the Edinburgh Cup brings together the finest spirits and the finest horses for an unparalleled racing experience.

“We look forward to working with Edinburgh Gin to make it a day to remember for racing fans and Gin fans alike.”

Racegoers don’t need to worry about on-the-day transport as tickets are available on the Musselburgh Racecourse website for return tickets to Edinburgh. Buses will leave Waterloo Place in the city centre at 11:15 and return at 18:00, helping to provide a seamless experience. All return tickets are only £10 per person.

Edinburgh Cup Raceday gate admission is £40 for adults and £25 for concessions. Children aged 17 years and under go free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Gates open at 11.30am, with provisional times for the first race at 1.15pm and the last race at 4:50pm.

Musselburgh Racecourse provides year-round racing action, with 27 race days across the flat and jump racing seasons including weekend, midweek, and evening.

For further information on the Edinburgh Cup and to book tickets now, visit: https://www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk/view-fixture/the-edinburgh-cup-2023

Scotland’s national tennis tour announces £1000 bonus prize

Tennis Scotland has today announced a significant new prize for players on Scotland’s national tennis tour.

In addition to increased prize money being invested into the TS Open Tour, the men’s and women’s players who finish top of the leaderboards following the 19-event circuit will each be rewarded with a £1000 bonus ahead of the end-of-season TS Open Tour Finals.

This prize will reward players for commitment to the tour and consistent performances throughout the year.

The TS Open Tour was created by Tennis Scotland, in partnership with clubs and organisers, to encourage player development and raise levels of play.

The 2023 circuit has been enhanced with significant investment, via sponsorship, with increased prize pots of up to £7600 at some events.

Players take part in men’s and women’s singles tournaments across the country throughout the year, earning ranking points based on their performances, which are then collated into leaderboards.

After the final tour event – the Scottish National Championships in November – the men’s and women’s players with the most ranking points will each be awarded £1000.

The top 16 players on each leaderboard will then take part in the two-day TS Open Tour Finals in December, where they will compete for a prize pot of £10,000 and the coveted Sword trophies, named in memory of former Scottish internationalists Derek and Allan Sword.

Tennis Scotland Chief Executive Blane Dodds said: “We are delighted to offer a bonus cash prize for the men’s and women’s players who finish top of the TS Open Tour leaderboards.

“Thanks to sponsorship, which we are most grateful for, increased prize pots at some events are helping to attract more players to compete in Scotland’s national tennis tour, and also helping our young pro players earn much-needed income to support their competition schedule. 

“This bonus will reward the players who show commitment to the tour and consistency in their performances throughout the year.”

Sunshine guaranteed at North Edinburgh Community Festival!

LAUNCH PROMISES MORE STALLS, MORE MUSIC, MORE FOOD and.. SUNSHINE!

Next month’s North Edinburgh’s Community Festival will be even bigger than last years event, organisers announced at Tuesdays launch at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre.

Around 6000 people attended last year’s gala event, and with at least SEVENTY marquees (up from 50 last year) and and not one but TWO music stages there promises to be even more for the local community to do, see and enjoy on 13 May.

Highlights include:

Disney-themed LIFT Parade from Muirhouse Millennium Centre to West Pilton Park to launch the Festival.

More than 70 local organisations and charities with Community Stalls

Two music stages: the open air Park Stage and the Green Room stage in West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre

The music line-up features a wealth of local talent. Performers include local youth orchestra Tinderbox, Granton Youth’s Mixtape Music Club and a session from ever-popular Fischy Music.

There’s a musical medley from the Edinburgh College Musical Theatre Group, performances from local choirs including Ama-zing Harmonies, AUGB Ukranian choir, Craigroyston High School Choir and a high-energy performance is guaranteed from local punk rockers Yer Local Bams. Low Tide, Rai Williams, Laurent and Abigail Kerner will also be performing live on the day in a musical feast.

Family events and activities will include Bookbug with Muirhouse Library and a Storytelling session with Edinburgh International Book Festival’s Citizen writers.

Fancy some sport? You’ll be spoilt for choice as Access Parkour, Spartans Community Football Academy and Inverleith Rugby Club will all be there. And there will be children’s Zumba classes.

North Edinburgh Arts will be organising arts and craft activities and Screen Education Edinburgh will offer film workshops. There’s an Army obstacle course, too.

There will also be learning and upskilling opportunities provided by local organisations including Edinburgh College will be offering course taster sessions.

All in all, there really should be something for everyone. And with sunshine (almost) guaranteed, it promises to be a great day.

Local activist Willie Black, a member of the Festival planning committee, introduced Tuesday’s launch. “We are very excited about this year’s Festival and it promises to be a really great event, a community celebration for everyone to enjoy.

“We have a wealth of diverse talent in this community and we want to share that talent far and wide. We’re looking forward to offering a warm North Edinburgh welcome to thousands of visitors next month, and the hope is that the Festival will be a great success and that it can become an annual event.”

North Edinburgh Community Festival is on Saturday 13 May from 12 – 5.30pm. Free event. All welcome.

IMAGES FROM LAUNCH EVENT:

Missile warning ahead of today’s Edinburgh derby

Two men, aged 24 and 19, have been arrested and charged in connection with items thrown during a match between Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian in January.

The items were thrown during a match at Easter Road Stadium on Saturday, 22 January.

The men were arrested on Thursday (13 April) and are expected to appear at Edinburgh Sheriff Court at a later date.

Chief Inspector Murray Tait, policing lead for today’s Edinburgh derby, said: “We take reports of missile throwing at matches very seriously and we work with clubs to identify anyone involved.

“The consequences of being struck by an item thrown from a stand can be severe and such behaviour will not be tolerated by our football clubs or Police Scotland.”

2023 UCI Cycling World Championship: Latest Power of the Bike episode demonstrates why cycling is a sport for everyone

Power of the Bike series

Organisers of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships have released their latest Power of the Bike episode, part of a digital series shining a spotlight on different individuals and communities across Scotland and how cycling and cycling programmes have positively impacted their lives.

From local cycling clubs to Olympic gold medallists, the series features stories from cyclists of all levels and abilities, from all over Scotland, inspiring more people to become involved in cycling.

Episode 4: Glasgow Track Racing Club

Glasgow Track Racing Club is the focus of the latest episode. Formed in 2018 and headed up by coach and retired professional track sprint cyclist Jonathan Mitchell, the club aims to build a training and racing community that is fun, inclusive, and sustainable.

The new Power of the Bike episode shares the club’s story of how they create a supportive environment for their growing membership of over 40 riders. Everyone from beginners to UCI World Champions are welcome and the club is passionate about showing how cycling can be a sport for everyone, regardless of age, ability or gender.

The video also features several of the clubs’ members including Kath McCormac, a senior rider who became interested in cycling later in life. While admitting that she might not be as fast as some of the younger riders, Kath joined as a member because of how supportive the club is and how much she enjoys the sport and being part of the community.

Watch the latest Power of the Bike episode with Glasgow Track Racing Club on the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships YouTube channel.  

Craig Burn, Director of Strategy and Impact at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships said: “Cycling is a sport that anyone can enjoy and this latest Power of the Bike episode with Glasgow Track Racing Club demonstrates that message perfectly.

“While elite athletes will be competing at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, we want to show as many people as possible how cycling and joining communities like Glasgow Track Racing Club can benefit their lives – from improved health and well-being to a cheaper and greener way to travel.”

Jonathan Mitchell, Chair of Glasgow Track Racing Club said: “We are a club of riders, coaches and officials, passionate about developing training and racing opportunities for track cycling in Scotland and the wider UK.

“What makes us special is our community of riders that is built on share values, openness, empathy and hard work.”

Bailie Annette Christie, Chair of Glasgow Life said: “Track cycling in Scotland has a proud history with some of the world’s best cyclists hailing from our country and, in Glasgow, we have a world-class facility that supports this cycling discipline.

“Built for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, The Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome has seen numerous champions crowned and celebrated from one of the most high-octane sports.

“But, our velodrome isn’t just for elite athletes, anyone can take the opportunity to ‘try the track’ and perhaps spark a new passion or past time.”

Over £11,000 raised for Pancreatic Cancer Action in memory of Frank McGarvey

Glasgow locals and Celtic supporters came together on Friday 17thMarch 2023 to remember and celebrate the life of football legend Frank McGarvey, raising £11,050 for Pancreatic Cancer Action.

Frank’s close friend Bernie Vallely, who runs ‘Fitba Greats’, teamed up with Robert and Mary from Elders Bar in Tollcross to organise a special St Patrick’s Day gathering. They wanted to create a memorable evening that would honour Frank’s legacy whilst also supporting a worthy cause.

Tickets for the event sold out in record time, with family, friends, and fans of Frank all eager to show their support. Ninety guests attended the evening, which was hosted by Tommy Sheridan, another of Frank’s close friends. Former Celtic Football players Tosh McKinlay and Joe Miller were also in attendance, sharing football memories and stories.

Guests were provided with an opportunity to win a raffle prize of a framed Celtic Football Club shirt, signed by the squad and a very kind guest then offered a very generous donation for a second version to be sourced by ‘Fitba Greats’.

The auction was the main driver of achieving such a fantastic total, with exclusive prizes creating a bidding battle across the packed room!

Prizes included:

  1. Signed framed print of Frank McGarvey
  2. Framed Bertie Ault print
  3. Framed Danny McGrain signed shirt.
  4. Framed Lisbon Lions print signed by 8 Lions.
  5. Framed & signed Celtic double winners’ shirt – Ange’s first season.
  6. 1985 Cup Final Shirt signed by the scorer of the winning goal – Frank McGarvey
  7. Signed by the Boss Ange signed shirt.
  8. Framed & signed Jersey – Captain Callum McGregor

Franks’ son Sean also brought along an additional prize of a signed Celtic shirt kindly donated by Celtic CEO Michael Nicholson.

Fiona Brown, Scottish Development Manager for Pancreatic Cancer Action, said: “I was privileged to meet Frank and his family last year, and it has been heart-warming to see the incredible outpouring of support from across the football community.

“It was lovely to hear people share memories of Frank event, and a wonderful video played on the night showcasing some of Frank’s many footballing highlights certainly triggered a few tears!

“We are very grateful to everyone involved in making the event such a huge success, raising a phenomenal amount of money, and indeed helping raise awareness of pancreatic cancer.”

Bernie Vallely, who runs ‘Fitba Greats’, said: “This was a real team effort, and we are all hopeful that raising the funds we did will massively help Fiona and her team.

“I’m glad we could celebrate Franks’ 67th birthday in such a positive way. Everyone played their part, and a great night was had.”

Jennifer Kane (Frank McGarvey’s daughter) said: “I was so flat on St Patrick’s Day with it being my dad’s birthday and have been missing him so much, but I got such a lift from people’s generosity and stories.

“My dad was so lucky to have pals like Bernie, Robert and Tommy and everyone coming together to raise that much money for a charity now so close to my heart is unbelievable, I know my dad will want us to continue to raise awareness for pancreatic cancer, it was an amazing night my dad would have loved it. I can’t wait for next years!” 

For Celtic supporters, 67 represents a special number, and this fundraiser was a fitting way to remember and celebrate Frank McGarvey’s life. It’s heart-warming to see how the Glasgow community has come together to support this cause, and we hope that this event will help raise awareness and support for pancreatic cancer.

Pancreatic cancer is the 5th most common cause of cancer death in the UK, with over 10,000 people diagnosed each year. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving survival rates, yet under 8% of those diagnosed will survive for five years or more.

Pancreatic Cancer Action is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease and funding research into early detection and treatment. To find out more about their work, visit their website at www.panact.org