Jack Schiavone, a prominent figure in Malta’s cycling scene, has passed away at the age of 52.

Schiavone was a competitive cyclist and also served as a national coach over the years, while also owning a shop popular within the cycling community called The Cyclist.

In a statement, Joe Bajada, the Malta Cycling Federation secretary-general, paid tribute to Schiavone’s contribution to the sport.

“Jack was known by many as a person with a big heart and who loved the sport of cycling from a very young age,” Bajada said.

“Many cyclists know Jack as a bubbly person with a great sense of humour. Jack was a two-time national road champion, in 1999 with Melita CC and in 2002 with Birkirkara St Joseph. He also won the national time trial championship in 2003 and 2004 with Pamsons club,” he added.

“He also represented Malta in several international competitions such as the Mediterranean Games in Tunisia, the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and the Games of the Small States of Europe in San Marino and Andorra as well as the World B Championships in South Africa.”

“Cycling in Malta has suffered a huge loss,” Bajada said.

“This is also a huge loss for Maltese sport in general. In the name of all those who form part of the Maltese cycling fraternity, we salute you Jack and thank you for all the work you carried out for the sport you loved so much.

“We hope that your drive, passion and love you had will continue to enlighten us. In the name of the Malta Cycling Federation I sent my deep condolences to his family and friends as well as to the Cyclist Club CC.”

Tributes also flowed in from a number of people from the athletic world, such as Maltese ironman and triathlete Fabio Spiteri and young triathlete Jake Vella.