Mia

Kilkenny's Mia Griffin: Cycling, Cuisine and Unfinished Business in Ireland!

Join Kilkenny's own Mia Griffin as she opens up about her love for Irish food and her ambition for Rás na mBan 2024!

When asked about her favourite thing about Ireland, Kilkenny’s own Mia Griffin doesn’t hesitate. "The food!" she exclaims enthusiastically. Of course, she acknowledges the warm-hearted people, but her passion for Irish cuisine takes centre stage. From hearty stews to delightful soda bread, Mia has a love affair with the quality of food in Ireland that is hard to resist. "Every time I travel, the taste just reminds me of home – there's nothing quite like it!" she adds, recalling fond memories of meals shared with family and friends.

Mia, a two-time stage winner at the renowned Rás na mBan cycling event, has more than just food on her mind these days. Speaking to us during the announcement of the Rás na mBan 2024 route, she expressed her excitement and determination, saying, "There's unfinished business from last year! I can’t wait to show everyone what I’ve got this time around." You could feel the infectious enthusiasm in her voice as she detailed her training and preparation for the upcoming race, which she regards as a key highlight in the Irish cycling calendar.

Yet, the conversation circled back to her love for food, where Mia revealed delightful insights about how important nutrition is for her training. "Eating well isn't just about enjoying good taste; it's about fuel! Quality ingredients help me push through those grueling training sessions," she said, smiling. With such fervor over both cycling and cooking, it's clear that for Mia, both activities go hand in hand, playing a big part in her life as both an athlete and an advocate for healthy living.

As we wrapped up our conversation, Mia shared a heartwarming story of her favourite dishes that are truly defining to her Kilkenny roots. As she prepared for the new cycling season, she had just made a batch of traditional Irish colcannon, a mix of creamy mashed potatoes with kale, and we can’t forget that sprinkle of butter on top! “You have to fuel your body, but you should also enjoy what you’re eating,” she remarked.

Did you know that Rás na mBan is not just a race but a celebration of women’s cycling in Ireland? It showcases the remarkable talent and perseverance of female cyclists. Plus, Kilkenny, known for its medieval history and stunning landscapes, serves as a perfect backdrop for cycling enthusiasts. Mia Griffin is an inspiring ambassador of both the sport and the epicurean delights Ireland has to offer!