PARALYMPIC silver medalist and swimming sensation Róisín Ní Ríain has been revealed as the Parade Grand Marshal for Limerick City’s St Patrick’s Day parade, part of the Limerick St Patrick’s Festival 2025 weekend of celebration.
Hailing from Drombanna in County Limerick, Róisín 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.
The 19 year old won two gold medals at the 2024 World Para Swimming European Open Championships in Madeira, Portugal, along with a further two silver and two bronze medals.
Róisín also struck gold at the 2023 World Para Swimming Championship in Manchester, again in her specialist 100m backstroke S13 category.
Róisín is also balancing her academic pursuits with her successful sporting career, currently studying for a science degree at the University of Limerick.
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.
Róisín herself said she is “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”.
Mayor John Moran said he is 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,” Mayor Moran said.
Príomh Comhairleoir of Limerick City and County Council, Cllr Dan McSweeney, added that “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.”
The 53rd Limerick International Band Championship will take place on Sunday March 16, while the traditional St Patrick’s Day Parade will take place on Monday March 17.
The public are invited to enjoy a musical Jamboree at Arthur’s Quay Park following the International Band Championship parade on the Sunday.
The universal access area for both parades is at The Crescent on O’Connell Street.
Additional fringe events surrounding the parade and championship will be announced in the weeks to come.
Limerick City and County Council is seeking participants for the Limerick City St Patrick’s Day parade, who can now register their interest on Limerick.ie.
