Nov 16, 2024 – The Cyclists’ Alliance (TCA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Christine O'Connell as Vice-President and Helen Woods as Treasurer of the board, marking an exciting new chapter for the organisation.
Christine O'Connell succeeds Rhian Ravenscroft, who served as TCA’s Vice-President for the past four years. Rhian’s extensive background in corporate and commercial law, combined with her passion for driving change in women’s sport, has been instrumental 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 reflected on her time with TCA, "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."
Christine O'Connell brings a wealth of expertise in strategy and corporate development, coupled with significant 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,” commented Christine. “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.”
Helen Woods brings her financial expertise and dedication to gender equity in sports to her new role as Treasurer. With a background in the bike insurance industry, where she has honed her skills in financial management and budgeting, Helen’s contributions will be invaluable as TCA continues to grow and champion a fair, safe, and inclusive cycling environment for all professional women athletes.
“I am delighted to join TCA, where I can bring my financial skills to a cause I feel so strongly about,” said Helen. “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.”
As TCA welcomes new leadership, it remains committed to addressing the challenges within women’s professional cycling and fostering positive change in the sport.
For media inquiries, please contact: communications@thecyclistsalliance.org