Hugh and Stan ride in to Hall of Fame
Cycling legend Hugh Porter has become one of the first 50 members in the sport's hall of fame.
Cycling legend Hugh Porter has become one of the first 50 members in the sport's hall of fame.
The Wolverhampton Olympian, who was 5,000 metre world champion four times in six years between 1968 and 1973, is recognised for his competition victories and TV work.
He is joined by Bilston-born Stan Kite who is honoured for helping to establish the Professional Cycling Association and organising dozens of early road races across the UK.
Mr Porter, who competed at the Tokyo Olympics in 1966, said today: "It's a great honour."Cycling's brought me a lot of enjoyment and this is just one more moment"
What's lovely about this hall of fame is it doesn't just include people who have competed in the sport but seeks to recognise everyone who has contributed to cycling in the UK - and that makes being part of it all the more special."
The 70 year old, who still lives in the city, has been a regular commentator for the BBC since 1984.
He was picked for the hall from more than 300 nominations made by cycling groups across the UK.
The list - which has been drawn up to celebrate 50 years of British Cycling - also includes Stan Kite, a lifelong member of Wolverhampton Wheelers.
Mr Kite, 86, who now lives in a Bilston care home, spent nearly two decades working as an administrator for the Professional Cycling Association during the 1970s and 1980s.
In that time he helped set up the famous London to Holyhead and London to Bradford road races, as well as writing a regular column for the Express & Star.
Mr Porter said: "He was one of the true unsung heroes of the sport, someone who genuinely loved cycling with all his heart, the kind of person who an organised sport simply could not survive without."
Louise Rabbitt, Mr Kite's daughter, added: "The whole family are so proud of him for this. It is lovely to think dad could have touched on so many people's lives."
Peter Maxwell, spokesman for British Cycling, said the pair were worthy members of the hall of fame, which also includes names such as Chris Boardman and Beryl Burton.
A new name will be added each year from now on.
