Parades were buzzing with pride and enjoyment
THERE was a great buzz of community and celebration on the streets of Dublin, Ireland and abroad at the St Patrick’s Day parades.
None more so at the Lucan, Clondalkin and Four Districts parades on Sunday last.
Somewhat uncharacteristically for St Patrick’s weekend there were prolonged sunny spells and mild temperatures which added to the occasion and the large crowds that attended.
Despite some rain falling on the beginning of the Four Districts parade this could not dampen the spirits of either those taking part or the big crowds that attended.
“What a day, where do I start, I’m so delighted with the event.
“It was definitely our biggest parade ever.
The John Deere from Luggwoods at the Four-Districts in Rathcoole
Rathlawns was buzzing with noise, music and laughter.
“We had over 20 groups taking part, everyone commented on how many participants there were,” said Sharon Redmond, parade co-ordinator.
Sharon was delighted that Garda Frank Howe was able to attend.
“A highlight for me was to see him at Rathlawns. Frank has been a great support for the parade from the beginning,” she said.
The Gladiators Sports and Social Club for children with disabilities in Clondalkin
The participation of the colour party led by retired servicemen from Roger Casement Aerodrome as well as, for the first time, the Tallaght marching band were further highlights.
“For me a parade is not complete without a colour party or a marching band, and we were so lucky to have both this year,” said Sharon.
Grand Marshall of the Four Districts parade was Pete (Peter) “the builder” Finn of RTÉ’s Home Rescue.
The prizes for entries to the parade were: 1st, Rathcoole Football; 2nd, Luggwoods; 3rd, St Mary’s GAA and special prizes were awarded to Commercial’s Hurling club and Saggart School Community Centre.
The sun certainly did shine brightly on the ninth ever Clondalkin parade and the very large crowds that attended there.
Enjoying the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in Clondalkin
“This year was the biggest parade yet in Clondalkin with over 10,000 spectators and 30 groups made up of 1,150 individuals taking part.
“The atmosphere was electric as the community spirit that is Clondalkin shone bright.
“The parade showcased all that is good about Clondalkin,” said Councillor Francis Timmons (Ind), parade chair.
All tastes were catered for in the entries to this year’s parade.
“From 3 top bands to dance groups to Karate groups to vintage cars to Clondalkin Motorcycle Club and much more, there was something for everyone,” said Cllr Timmons.
Shell and Harper Lilly in Clondalkin
“There were also facilities available for those with additional needs. “
This year’s parade included a sensory bus and area for people with sensory needs, a wheelchair area and was fully inclusive and a real community event that was full of diversity and inclusion,” said Cllr Timmons.
Grand Marshall and Dublin Ladies football star Hannah Tyrell and the mayor of South Dublin County Council Alan Edge (Ind) selected the following award winners: Best Newcomer – The sky Twirlers Most Creative – The Gladiators Best walking group – Newlands Taekwon-do club Best Dance Group – LD Dance school Best Float – Áras Chrónáin, and Overall Winners – The Gladiators.
“Everyone that took part was a winner,” added Cllr Timmons.
The Lucan parade was also a tremendous success.
Anastasia, Alissa and Sofia in Clondalkin
“We had a great parade with 38 groups marching in the parade,” said Caroline Brady, Parade organiser.
“The parade comprised of approximately 2,000 people marching.
“There were huge crowds from the start of the parade at Tesco in Hillcrest, all the way along the route.
“The parade was bigger and more colourful than ever,” Caroline said.
Dublin Senior and Lucan Sarsfield s GAA goalkeeper and All-Star Abby Shiels was the Grand Marshal who arrived in style in the vintage Barberstown Castle Bedford car at the review stand outside the Muintir na Tíre hall in the village.
Vibalic and Elena in Rathcoole
For entertainment the Lucan Concert Band performed at the Spar in Dodsboro and the St James Brass and Reed band performed at the AIB branch.
Prizes were awarded as follows: Parade Marshall Award – Stagg Cycles and Lucan Cycle Club, Peter Brady perpetual cup for Best in Parade – Goldwing Owners Club, Paddy Kenny perpetual trophy for Best turned-out group – Na Gaeil Óga CLG, Munitir na Tíre prize – Serena Brady Academy of Dance, Circle K prize – AGP FC, Best Performance – Lucan Gospel Choir, Best Individual Entry – Andri Kryzhanivskyi, Most Energetic – Lucan United FC, Most Entertaining – Lucan Dew Drops, and Most Colourful – Lucan Chinese Community.
Volunteer Sam Cummins with Lucan Marshall and Dublin player Abby Shiels
The first winner of the Jim Toner perpetual award was RTH Property Management or ‘Remi the Handyman’.
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