The Limerick St Patrick's parade went off with a bang today as rugby star Keith Earls led 3,600 marchers through the streets of his native city.
Up to 60,000 people turned out to cheer on countless colourful floats and bands with the mammoth parade taking over two hours to pass by.
Nobody was prouder of the spectacle than 23 year-old Ireland try scorer Earls, who led off the procession in an open topped vintage car with baby sister Jenny (3) perched on his knee. “It’s a great honour for me and my family,” said the grand marshal from Moyross. “We’re proud of Limerick city.
I’m proud of where I come from and when I’m abroad I always say where I’m from - I’m passionate about Limerick.”
Young and old lined the streets to watch the city’s defence forces and emergency services march behind Limerick’s much loved Boherbuoy Brass and Reed Band. The 12th infantry Battalion from Sarsfield Barracks led the military contingent which thrilled spectators - especially youngsters - as four Mowag tanks passed by.
They made a big impression on Cathal O’Brien, 18 months, who proudly wore the shamrock on his socks as he dangled from his father’s arms. “He’s getting a great kick out of it,” said his dad Cathal O’Brien from Mungret.
Also enjoying the spectacle was Cathal’s cousin Katelyn Ahern (4). “This is a special parade,” said the Askeaton girl. “I liked the cars and the tanks and I met my cousin Rachel.”
Excitement spread through the crowd as the fire brigade sounded their sirensand waved to children. More than 100 groups took part in the parade which had the theme ‘I Love Limerick’. Organisations from all walks of life were represented with entries from Christian, sporting, business, immigrant and community groups. Wearing the green was particularly easy for spectators as many donned their GAA supporter’s kit in the Limerick colours – green and white.
But the city’s other great sport – rugby – was also well represented. Ireland and Munster player Gerry Flannery took pride of place in a massive float flanked by glamorous girls; while further back the rank and file of the city’s clubs marched in their playing kit. The Kelly family from Mungret had a wait of over an hour before 10 year-old Paul swung into view leading
Garryowen junior players down O’Connell Street. “It’s great for the kids,” said his mother Patricia, from Mungret. “I haven’t missed a parade in 30 years, I come for the excitement.”
Garryowen was followed by Young Munster and Old Crescent rugby clubs, with the city’s scout groups bringing up the rear. Entertainment was provided by various dance and music groups with youth players from the Irish Chamber Orchestra and the impressive Corpus Christi Pipes and Drums band.
But even those with no official entry managed to capitalise on the carnival atmosphere. An elderly homeless man and his dog decided to join the parade and carved out an exclusive niche between two marching groups. He swelled with pride at the crowd’s cheer as he passed by.