Tuam Cycling Club makes history at Rás na mBan
Women create link between two generations
TUAM Cycling Club marked a major milestone last week when the club completed its first ever Rás na mBan, held from September 2-6.
The achievement adds another important chapter to the club’s long history and, fittingly, comes 65 years after Denny Hannon completed the Rás in 1961 as part of the first Tuam men’s team.
In 2026, Natasha Bornhorst, Lydia Louw, Meave Gallagher, Betty Haus and Amy Kinsella became part of the club’s first women’s Rás team, creating a remarkable link between two generations of Tuam cycling. The achievement reflects the continued growth of women’s cycling in the club and across Connacht.
Tuam Cycling Club would like to acknowledge the long-standing support of Murray Timber Group, who have backed the club for many years, and also thank Endo Ireland, Neurological Communication Partners and Cycling Connacht for their support of the Rás na mBan campaign.
A special word of thanks also goes to the many riders, clubs and supporters from Galway and across the province who helped and encouraged the team throughout the year.
As Tuam Cycling Club prepares to celebrate its 70th year in 2027, the club is keen to build on the momentum created by the women’s team. A four-time Irish Cycling Club of the Year, Tuam has a proud tradition in racing, leisure, youth and off-road cycling, and plans are already being developed to strengthen its underage programme next year.
The club also remains very active locally. Sunday leisure spins continue throughout the winter from Tuam Cancer Care, a local charity the club partnered with this year and helped raise €2,500 for.
Whether your interest is: leisure cycling, racing, road, off-road or youth cycling, Tuam Cycling Club has something for everyone. New and returning members are always welcome and can contact the club through Facebook, Instagram or at tuamcyclingclub@gmail.com.
For the women who completed Rás na mBan, they can now proudly call themselves Women of the Rás — and their achievement has given Tuam Cycling Club real momentum for the future.