The Eric the Seagull Memorial Ride 2026 is the Lasardine Cycling Club's proud January tradition—an annual pilgrimage in honour of the late, great Eric, whose dramatic mid-air disagreement with Captain Black has passed into club legend. Every year, a brave flock of Sardines (and the perennial 82%ers, drawn by the scent of Tall Tales rather than the call of the open road) gathers to defy winter's bite and celebrate the spirit of the bird who never quite learned to look both ways.
The ride kicks off at La Frégate Café at 10.00 am, where caffeine-fuelled optimism briefly masks the grim reality of winter cycling. The highlight is a stop at St. Aubin's for the deeply moving reading of Eric's eulogy—rumour has it someone once managed to keep a straight face. Judith turns up dressed like an 80s pop icon, Big Tony is already complaining about the cold, and Tyson is reportedly "saving his legs" for lunch.
The grand finale unfolds at The Trinity Arms, hallowed home of post-ride tales, where the "recovery shakes" contain suspiciously little protein and far too much alcohol. Plates are cleared, pride is restored, and the noble act of cycling in January is retold as if it were an Alpine ascent.
A fitting tribute to Eric the Seagull—may he forever glide above us, stealing chips, judging our form, and reminding us that even in the bleak midwinter, Sardines can still soar.
Also check out other Sports events in St Helier, Trips & Adventurous Activities in St Helier.
