I met Maurice for the first time around 2007-2008 at the CU Award night and was honoured to be seated next to him at the table. Been introduced by Bronagh Kirk then Ards CC and Jack Watson MBE. Big Mo told me all these stories about his travels as an international rider and Olympian, his commonwealth adventures and so much more. A very impressive international career I learned later when I looked him up when back home. We met several times after, mostly in the Ballymena area when one of the classics was on, or at the International Tour of the North. In the last few years, his health was not so good anymore, but his friend Lenny Kirk made sure that Mo had his day out to see us at the races which we appreciated. This will be no more and sadly have to write this death notice. Another legend is gone…My sincere condolences to his family and friends, RIP Big MO (1936-2020)
Maurice was also a coach and advisor to young talent, his advice was plain, direct and simple…the “old school” way
Anthony Mitchell, director at the NI Commonwealth Games and ex-director of Cycling Ireland wrote this in Mo’s memory.
A true giant of the cycling world, Morris `Mo` Foster has passed away after a short illness. He was 83.
Known the world over primarily as a multi-national champion and record-breaker, but also as a manager, mechanic, masseur and for a long time a fixture at many cycling events across the country and beyond.
His racing exploits are well documented, from Time Trialling, Road Racing, Track Racing and record-breaking. Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games and World Championships – he did it all.
As a coach he was always on hand to offer straight-talking no-nonsense advice, one that sticks with me was a question on dieting and losing weight – `Sit further away from the table`… A legend !!
Mo also had a long term association with the Commonwealth Games and travelled the world looking after the country`s best riders.
For many in Northern Ireland, he will be remembered for running operations at the Orangefield Track in Belfast where he was often to be seen circulating on the motorised Derny administering pain to those who tried to keep up behind him.
Pre-deceased by his wife Maureen, our family condolences go to the wider Foster family.
A true legend and gentleman whose like will not be seen again.
Funeral details: The cortege will leave from his Nephew Hudson`s house, 38a Ballymatoskerty Rd, Randalstown at 3 pm this Sunday for a service of thanksgiving at Duneane Presbyterian Church at 3.30, and burial at the adjoining burial ground.
Family flowers only, with donations in lieu to the Belgian Project, C/O Logan`s Funeral Services, 12 The Diamond, Ahoghill, Co Antrim, BT42 1JZ
Duneane Presbyterian Church near Toombridge (3.30 pm Sunday 9th February)
