On February 6, the #andshecycles campaign launched its Roadshow in Castlebar, Mayo with a panel event and exhibition in the Leisure Complex at Lough Lannagh.

Broadcaster, Angelina Nugent, lead the event as MC, along with panellists including Green-Schools Travel Officer, Caitriona Cunningham, Mayo Ladies Footballer Katheryn Sullivan, cyclist Saoirse O’Reilly and Mayo secondary students St. Joseph’s Ann Sibi, Davitt College’s Emer and Fiona Minish and Sacred Heart’s Ariadna Gomez-Kelly. The participating women and students on the panel had so many positive and encouraging stories but feel strongly to speak about the issues that they face as they take to the roads as a young female cyclist.

Speaking on behalf of the campaign, 25-year-old cyclist Saoirse O’Reilly, said:

“I’m very honoured to be asked to inspire and encourage young girls peddling. In 2016 I did a solo cycle from France to Romania so I understand how empowering it can be to get on your bike and experience the world in an alternative way.”

Overall 1st place in the Juniors 2020 Maselspoort ATU Sprint Triathlon African Cup winner, Maeve Gallagher, really wanted to join us for the launch in Castlebar but sent us this personalised message all the way from South Africa!

 

Green-Schools would like these events to give teenage girls a platform to speak about cycling experiences and attitudes, explore barriers and promote empowerment among young women who are cycling or want to cycle. This #andshecycles Roadshow launch event has been supported with the help of Mayo County Council and Mayo Sports Partnership. To celebrate the campaign Roadshow launch, Mayo Sports Partnership are offering free ‘Bike for Life’ training with a local Mayo female trainer for any girls who would like to gain more confidence cycling.

The #andshecycles Roadshow will commence it’s journey from Castlebar, Co. Mayo and will be held in various towns and cities across Ireland between February and May 2020, including Galway City, Limerick City, Moanacurragh, Carlow and Cork City.

Stay tuned for event updates on our events page.