Two of Ireland’s most inspiring sports stars Ellen Keane & Kellie Harrington announced as Grand Marshals for St. Patrick’s Day Parade 2022!
Stars of the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics and Olympics, and two of Ireland’s most inspirational athletes have been chosen as this years’ Grand Marshals for the National St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Friends Ellen Keane and Kellie Harrignton will lead out the national Parade together in Dublin on Thursday March 17th. Ellen and Kellie’s achievements represent the very best of Ireland - strength, perseverance and generosity of spirit. They represent all who wear their Irishness with pride, uplifting our people, connecting us as a nation. Ellen and Kellie reflect more than sporting achievement, they represent all our people whose talent and commitment to excellence brings pride to Ireland - sportspeople, artists, makers, creators, thinkers, dreamers, innovators, entrepreneurs and many more, from all realms of life.
Ellen Keane: “I am so excited to be a Grand Marshal alongside Kellie for this year’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade. When I was younger and watching the parade in Dublin, I always wanted to be one of the children taking part and now I cannot wait for my childhood dream to come true! I am so honoured and grateful for this opportunity and I know it is a day I will remember for the rest of my life.”
Kellie Harrington: “Anyone that knows me, knows how much I love this city so I can’t wait to be leading the magic through the streets of Dublin and to see all of those faces smiling back at me, having the time of their lives!”
Catherine Martin T.D, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media “ The theme of this year’s St Patrick’s Festival is “Connections” and, with the announcement of these two inspirational international athletes as Grand Marshals for the parade, there is now a sporting connection for Festival – in addition to its ongoing artistic, cultural and tourism connections and synergies – which are all aspects of my Ministerial brief. With their Olympic and Paralympic successes as proof, proud Dubliners Kellie and Ellen are the very best in the world at what they do. This is why it is so fitting that they will lead out this year’s St Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin, with its world-class pageantry and packed programme of wider Festival events and experiences to celebrate our national day. Today, I join with our Grand Marshals in inviting a local, national and global audience to connect with us, join the festivities and experience for yourselves this multi-faceted celebration of our proud heritage, culture and creativity. Tá fáilte romhaibh go léir – beirigí bua!”
