Rob Warren, Beth Cole and Christine Smith win Event Volunteer of the Year, Club Volunteer of the Year and Recreational Cyclist of the Year at the Welsh Cycling Awards.

Rob’s dedication to the sport of cycling is a central component to him being a deserving winner of the Event Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Capitol Skoda, Newport.

His willingness to go the extra mile to promote cycling in Wales – both on a competitive and social level – and enhance the engagement in the sport across the nation is something that has been recognised by many.

Rob works tirelessly for both Cardiff Ajax, as both Chairman and as a coach, and also for Welsh Cycling as a commissaire. Rob can often be found in one of the race cars at most road races, or helping with the set-up and organisation of other cycling events and races across South Wales.

On top of this, Rob also performs the role of organiser for the Criterium races at Llandow and for the Row and King races at Maindy Cycling Track. He has also organised the Betty Pharaoh Memorial Road Race for several years – enabling significant races to be held here in Wales.

Beth Cole rewarded for commitment to Whitchurch

Beth is a vital member of Whitchurch Cycling Club and through her absolute commitment and selfless contribution to the club, has been recognised Club Volunteer of the Year which is sponsored by Litelok.

She currently performs the role of club treasurer and despite having to juggle venue hire, charges for sessions, purchase of kit, fundraising events, coaches training, as well as memberships, Beth is always on top of the situation with figures and projections to hand, as well as prompt payments.

Beth does all of this whilst also being a working mother of three children, all of whom are members of Whitchurch Cycling Club and when not participating themselves, are on hand to support other members.

Christine Smith takes home the Recreational Cycling Award

Due to her commitment to cyclists and her enthusiasm and drive to get others to share her passion, Christine is a worthy winner of the HSBC UK Recreational Cycling Award for 2019. Not only does she organise fantastic Breeze rides which are both varied and also interesting, she also tirelessly raises money for Women Against Cancer.

Being such a supportive individual, Christine has helped many riders to build their confidence and to develop their road-cycling skills – allowing them to progress as cyclists. Always making these rides fun, Christine ensures that group riding is enjoyable for all participants and as a result, the miles fly by.

Being one of the original Breeze Champions in Wales, Christine has completed an incredible 250 miles – running two most weeks. Demonstrating that the core element of cycling is to have fun and enjoyment, Christine has played a vital role in enhancing the participation of women in cycling and building their confidence once on the bike.

Rob Warren said: "It's really unexpected, because there's a lot of people who do a lot in terms of events, it's not the reason why I do it but it's really nice to win the award.

"It's just a bit unexpected really because a lot of the other guys who were nominated put a lot of time into it and in relative terms I've not been doing it for long, so it's a really pleasing and a bit of surprise," he continued.

Beth Cole said: "It's completely it was great to be nominated, it was such a great club, it's a reward for everyone in the club because they all work so hard.

They all do the frontline work and I'm just there in the background," Beth continued.

Christine Smith said: "I'm absolutely astonished, I'm truly amazed as I didn't expect this award."