Vital Mayo organisation named National Lottery Good Cause Legend
Ray Walsh of Mayo Mountain Rescue pictured with the organisation’s bespoke trophy after Mayo Mountain Rescue was named one of the National Lottery’s 2026 Good Cause Legends. Pic: Michael McLaughlin / Julien behal Photography
Mayo Mountain Rescue Team has been crowned a National Lottery Good Cause Legend 2026, earning national recognition for its volunteer-led search, rescue and emergency care work across Mayo’s mountains, uplands and remote areas.
The team received the news during a surprise live on-air reveal on Midwest Radio, where representatives learned that they had been chosen as one of this year’s Sport & Wellness winners in the National Lottery Good Cause Legends competition.
The National Lottery launched Good Cause Legends earlier this year to recognise extraordinary organisations, projects and individuals who have used National Lottery Good Causes part-funding to make a lasting impact in their communities. Following a nationwide application and judging process, nine organisations from across Ireland were selected as Good Cause Legends, with three winners chosen in each of the three categories: Sport and Wellness, Cultural and Heritage, and Community. Each winner will receive a €15,000 award and a bespoke Good Cause Legends trophy.
Mayo Mountain Rescue Team was recognised in the Sport & Wellness category for its vital role in emergency response and public safety across Mayo’s mountain terrain. National Lottery Good Causes part-funding supported the purchase of essential medical and training equipment, including bespoke medical rucksacks and a back-up stretcher, helping volunteers respond safely and effectively to multiple callouts.
National Lottery CEO, Cian Murphy, said "Good Cause Legends is about recognising the people and organisations whose impact goes far beyond what is expected and who make a genuine difference in their communities every day. Mayo Mountain Rescue Team is a truly deserving winner, providing an essential voluntary service to people across Mayo’s mountains, uplands and wilderness areas. Their commitment, skill and dedication are a powerful example of what it means to be a legend, and we are delighted to celebrate their achievements and recognise the vital work they continue to do."
