RIP Craig Hardie
Cycle Speedway was rocked by the sudden passing of Fife rider Craig Hardie yesterday, as wife Lynn and daughter Lois broke the tragic news on social media, that Craig had sadly passed away after a short battle with cancer.
Craig was a highly accomplished cyclist; a multiple Scottish grass track champion along with Scottish titles in Cyclocross and two in Mountain Bike. A gifted technical rider, seemingly at one with his machine; he would entertain crowds with skill and tricks that are beyond the majority of others. Off the bike he was a talented mechanic and owned Hardie Bikes, a popular family-run bike shop in Fife with Bill Hardie.
A founding member of Cycle Speedway’s newest club, the Fife Revolutions, his infectious passion and enthusiasm helped turn a team of individuals into team-riding champions, as they took the Northern League Division 2 title in 2019.
The honour was certainly Cycle Speedway’s that a cyclist such as Craig decided to take up and promote our largely overlooked sport. Although his time with us was brief, his positive character made him many friends in the North; as the many tributes that came flooding in yesterday testified.
A great shame that the Covid-19 pandemic denied him a chance to be involved with the Scotland national team on home soil, which was due to take place at Fife’s “Fast Bowl” last season. Fitting though that the club will be able to pay Craig their respects on the international stage, should the event take place this season.
Across social media, the outpouring of grief was immeasurable for the popular Scot, as many paid their respects, from casual shop visitors, competitors and friends.
Olympic and World champion track cyclist, Katie Archibald, wrote her tribute: “Craig was always an important figure in cycling to me, and his Highland Games wins were formative in how I viewed success. He of course made an impact on this world, and he made an impact on me along the way.”
Our thoughts are with Lynn, Lois, Fife CSC and all of Craig’s family and friends at this sad time.
Ride in peace, Craig.
Words by Myke Grimes