Ruatha is the second oldest Hold on Pern, after Fort. It was founded by Red Hanrahan. The name is derived from the Irish phrase Rua Atha, meaning "Red's Ford". In Irish, it should be "Ruaha". However, according to The Dragonlover's Guide to Pern, it is pronounced with a th sound. It has long been known for being the source of fine Runnerbeast lines. Many Weyrwomen have come from Ruatha's ruling bloodline, perhaps due to the fact that Red and Mairi Hanrahan, parents of Sorka, were the originators.