University of Limerick student and double Paralympic medallist swimmer Róisín Ní Ríain will lead Limerick’s St Patrick’s Day parade as Grand Marshal, it has been announced.
The UL Sports Scholar, who took home the silver medal in the 100m backstroke and the bronze medal in the 200m individual medley at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris in the S13 classification, said she was “thrilled” to lead the St Patrick’s Day Parade in Limerick city.
The 19-year-old from Drombanna, Co Limerick who is in second year Sports Science and Teaching at UL, said: “I am really honoured to have been asked to lead Limerick city’s St Patrick’s Day parade. I grew up attending the parades and to be asked to lead this one is very special for me and my family.
“The day is a celebration of everything that is Irish, and it will be wonderful to be waving the tricolour proudly once again in my home city. I carry Limerick with me no matter where I am and what competition I’m in, and I can’t wait to be able to share more memories and magical moments with all of those who’ve supported me at home throughout my career. Let’s make Limerick a sea of green once again this St Patrick’s Day!”
Róisín, who made history as the first female UL student to win medals at the Paralympic Games, also won two gold medals at the 2024 World Para Swimming European Open Championships in Madeira, Portugal, while taking home a further two silver and two bronze medals from that event.
She also struck gold at the 2023 World Para Swimming Championship in Manchester, again in her specialist 100m backstroke S13 category.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, said he was delighted to have Róisín on board for this year’s festivities.
“The whole of Limerick followed Róisín’s exploits in Paris last summer. I was delighted to recognise her achievements at a Mayoral Reception in January and it’s only right for Limerick to be able to collectively celebrate her successes this St Patrick’s Day. She embodies the spirit of Limerick – strong, proud, and always pushing forward. I look forward to meeting Róisín again on the parade route on March 17.”
Príomh Comhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr Dan McSweeney, added: “Róisín is a remarkable young woman and an outstanding athlete. She has not only brought glory to our city and county but has also inspired countless individuals with her determination and spirit. Her dedication to her sport and her commitment to excellence serve as a shining example to us all. It is an honour to have her lead our St Patricks Day parade, and I am confident that she will make this year’s celebration even more special.”
The theme of this year’s Limerick St Patrick’s Festival is ‘A More Fun Limerick’, which aims to highlight the vibrant and playful spirit of Limerick, promising a festival filled with joy, creativity, and community engagement.