Former cycling champion passes away

The local cycling community has been plunged into mourning following the death of former national cycling champion, Colin Top Cat Alleyne, who passed away last Saturday morning after a short battle with cancer.

Alleyne, 72, who formerly lived at Fairfield, Black Rock, received the Barbados Service Medal (BSM) in recognition of his impressive career as a cyclist in the 1970s and 80s, when he put Barbados on the map.

He successfully represented the island across the region and as far as Europe. 

His niece, Sonia A. Alleyne described him as an inspiration and a source of encouragement for many younger cyclists.  

She said he also made a significant contribution outside of the sporting arena.

“Top Cat was a renowned Barbadian coral stone mason, heritage craftsman, and a man of strong faith. His service to Barbados continued in his work with the Commonwealth Heritage Forum and the Samuel Jackman Prescod Institute of Technology, training others in heritage stone masonry techniques. 

“In early 2023, Colin restored the old railway bridge between Bulkeley and Carmichael in St. George. That project was funded by the Peter Moore Barbados Trust and the bridge now bears his name,” Sonia recalled.

“In 2025, he also restored the much larger Blackman’s Egg and Molasses Bridge in St. Joseph, which was originally built in the 1680’s. The noted stonemason also produced commissioned pieces for businesses, hotels and villas across Barbados, including polished coral stone furniture. 

“Alleyne was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and a role model to many. He will be deeply missed. At 72, the master craftsman has downed his tools, the champion will cycle no more, but Top Cat’s legacy of excellence will live on,” she further added.

(EJ)