Moira Aston continues to extend her influence across Irish and international sport as Chief Executive Officer of Canoeing Ireland, a position she has held since 2018.
Her leadership has transformed the organisation, strengthening governance, establishing high-performance structures and expanding opportunities for participation through initiatives including Bridge the Gap and PaddleAble.
In May 2026, her contribution was recognised with the KPMG Women in Sport Award at the Irish Sport Industry Awards.
Her influence increasingly extends beyond Ireland. In 2025, she became the first female Vice-President of the European Canoe Association, now Paddle Europe, and joined the International Canoe Federation Board.
She also serves on the Executive Committee of the Olympic Federation of Ireland, contributing to the wider development and governance of Irish Olympic sport.
Aston’s combination of organisational leadership, international representation and commitment to inclusion has established her as one of Ireland’s most influential sporting executives.
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Previously named: Dr Una May, Suzanne Eade, Karen Dessain-Gelinet, Sarah Keane, Karen Coventry, Katie Taylor, Lyn Savage, Mary O’Connor
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This is the 14th year we have listed 50 Women of Influence in Irish Sport. We will add new names daily through early December.
We have an open nomination process, and you can nominate potential additions until our closing date of November 10th, 2026.
Our definition of influence is broad and includes those making a difference in how sport is governed, managed, and brought to life. This year’s list will include CEO’s, leaders, founders, coaches, storytellers and more. To highlight those who may be less familiar, we deliberately exclude those who are still active players in their sport.
We’ll host our Annual Women in Sport Conference at Lidl HQ on Tuesday, December 1st, featuring a range of national and international speakers and a room full of inspiring guests.
To reserve your place, you can book a ticket below.
If you would like to join the Sport for Business community and see your organisation in our content, on our stages, and in the daily conversation around the commercial world of Irish Sport, email us today and let’s see what is possible.
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