My thoughts on a sad day for cycling in Ireland, and the cycling community world wide: “Met Jack for the first time Jack in 2005, and he and his son Paul became later my tutors to become a commissaire in 2006. In the years who followed we had some run ins, maybe that was because we both are so passionate about our beloved sport, but Jack was my first port of call if I needed advice, which I gratefully accepted. The last few years we became good friends, stayed sometimes in the same hotels or B&B’s, when working at the races, the last time was in Carrick O Shannon for the AGM in 2023 with his lovely wife Rea, my wife Maggie and Rea had a shared passion to, wool and knitting. The last time we worked together was a few weeks ago in Athea (Irish Champs), Jack was finish area comm, and myself the commentator, he told me that the rotten disease was back, but still shocked it killed him so fast. I will miss you Jack, and so will many many others, it was a privilege to have known you…Rest in Peace, Dany, and the Blondeel family
His son Paul Watson (UCI Commissaire) told social media this morning! Just wanted to let all our Cycling friends know that the main man, Jack Watson MBE – dad, passed on peacefully this morning after a short fight against Cancer. He was a legend – dedicated his life to the Sport he loved
MBE – for services to Cycling
UCI – Gold Merit Award
UEC – Merit Award
UCI International Commissaire
UCI Antidoping Inspector
Over 50 years in Cycling Administration- President, Honorary Secretary etc the list goes on.
He was known throughout the Cycling World and was always nice to be asked about how he was doing in my travels. Even at the weekend we watched the Olympic Time Trials, together and were able to work together only 4 weeks ago at the National Championships.
He loved our Sport – Rest Peacefully Dad.
