The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA), which provides support to female elite cyclists during and after their careers, has announced two new appointments. Christine O’Connell has been confirmed as Vice-President for the organisation, with Helen Woods confirmed as Treasurer of its board.
Christine O’Connell succeeds Rhian Ravenscroft, who served as TCA’s Vice-President for the past four years.
Rhian Ravenscroft’s background in corporate and commercial law, combined with her passion for driving change in women’s sport, has been key in delivering TCA’s mission. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in strengthening TCA’s impact and advocacy for women in professional cycling.
Rhian Ravenscroft said “We have made huge leaps in the last four years – from formalising our mission; through to developing and overdelivering on our five year strategy which have seen us foster a strong roster of commercial partners.
“I am particularly proud of the team’s work on the mentor scheme which provides meaningful sustainable support for athletes as they exit the sport, and for our transparent legal advice.
“Along with our ongoing advocacy and unrelenting commitment to independent representation of athletes, I am proud of the part I played in building the TCA and creating the structures to ensure its future success. I will be a vocal supporter from the sidelines and have no doubt TCA will go from strength to strength – and I look forward to contributing to women’s sport as we embark on a truly transformative decade.”
TCA’s new Vice-President, Christine O’Connell, has expertise in strategy and corporate development, coupled with non-executive experience across multiple sectors. As Vice-President, she will work alongside the President and TCA staff, offering strategic direction and supporting the implementation of the organisation’s vision and goals.
“I’m delighted to join TCA and bring my expertise to support its vital work,” said O’Connell. “I’ve long admired TCA’s remarkable achievements and look forward to contributing to its mission of fostering a safe, inclusive environment for professional women cyclists and ensuring they can sustain a living through the sport they love.”
New TCA Treasurer Helen Woods has a background in the bike insurance industry, where she has honed her skills in financial management and budgeting.
“I am delighted to join TCA, where I can bring my financial skills to a cause I feel so strongly about,” said Woods.
“Supporting women athletes and helping to create a more inclusive space in professional cycling is incredibly important to me. TCA’s mission aligns with my passion for greater female representation in sport, and I look forward to playing my part in achieving fairness within the peloton.”
