Katie Ryan from Tullow, was among 22 young, talented women who entered the competition for the much-coveted title when the selection night took place in the Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Carlow on Saturday 29th March. Aged 26, Katie has already set up her own business as a yoga teacher and is about to start a new job, with Hockey Ireland as equality, diversity and inclusion co-ordinator.
Having graduated with a degree from Dundalk Institute of Technology in sports, exercise and enterprise, which she has put to practical use in her career so far. She was also vice-president for welfare and equality in the college’s student union and, during college, worked with special needs children in California while on J1 visas. The Covid years put a stop to her travels, so once the restrictions were lifted, Katie set off on a five-month solo adventure to Bali, Thailand and Australia. In Bali she completed training as a yoga teacher while she also took part in two fundraising activities for the local community.
For the Rose of Tralee competition, Katie was sponsored by Harry’s Burke’s Bar, Carlow, where she teaches yoga, including hosting classes that are canine friendly.
Katie Ryan is congratulated by her mother Geraldine minutes after her name was announced as the Carlow Rose Photos: michaelorourkephotography.ie