Mayo women encouraged to get active as HER Outdoors Week returns
Women and girls across Mayo are being encouraged to step outside and take part in a week of outdoor activities as HER Outdoors Week returns from August 11th-17th.
Now in its fifth year, the nationwide initiative celebrates female participation in outdoor activities and aims to encourage women of all ages and abilities to try something new in nature.
In Mayo, there are 40 events lined up throughout the week from surfing on Keel Beach, to guided nature walks in Belleek Woods, and kayaking along Lough Lannagh.
Organised by the Mayo Sport Partnership in collaboration with local clubs, community hubs, and National Governing Bodies of Sport (NGBs), the week offers a diverse range of outdoor activities that not only encourage women to get active, but also provide a fun and welcoming way to connect with other women and enjoy the great outdoors.
Charlie Lambert, the Head of Mayo Sports partnership, says the week is about more than just exercise: “Initiatives like this are vital not only to raise awareness of the benefits of outdoor recreation but also to shine a spotlight on the many opportunities for women to get outside, be active, and feel empowered in nature. A massive thank you to all our local partners and Sport Ireland for assisting us in putting this comprehensive schedule of events together.”
Through turning awareness into action, HER Outdoors Week invites women to explore the outdoors, get active, and experience the empowering benefits of nature.
"We want to provide more opportunities for all females to escape to the outdoors and try something new," said Deirdre Donnelly, the Women in Sport Lead for Mayo Sports Partnership, "Whether you are a seasoned adventurer or just looking for a fun and refreshing activity, HER Outdoors Week has something special for you."
HER Outdoors Week is supported by Sport Ireland and Local Sports Partnerships (LSP) across the country, with the aim of increasing visibility for women in sport and bridging the gender gap in participation.
Dr Úna May, CEO of Sport Ireland, said: ““HER Outdoors Week is all about celebrating the benefits of being in and exercising in the outdoors, and bringing visibility to female participation in sport and physical activity.”
This year’s event coincide with the 20th anniversary of Sport Ireland’s ‘Women in Sport Programme’. Since 2005 the programme has invested over €30 million to support NGBs and LSPs in delivering initiatives specifically for women and girls, including a €4 million investment in this year alone.
Sport Ireland remains committed to closing the gender gap in club membership and event participation, with the goal of achieving equal participation in sport by 2027. The 2024 Irish Sports Monitor report found that the gender gap has narrowed to 2.8%, the lowest level recorded.
A full schedule of Mayo events, with times and booking details, is available on the Mayo Sports Partnership website. Updates and highlights from across the country will be shared on social media using the hashtag #HEROutdoorsWeek.
This article has been funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.