TWO OF IRELAND’S gold-winning athletes have been named as Grand Marshals for this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade. 

Ellen Keane and Kellie Harrington will lead the national parade together in Dublin on Thursday March 17.

Swimmer Keane won gold at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics while Harrington claimed gold at the Tokyo Olympics in boxing.

The parade will make its return to the streets of Dublin from 12 noon, winding its way from Parnell Square to St. Stephen’s Green.

It has been a childhood dream for Keane, who said she was honoured when asked: “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.”

Harington said it it’s set to be a magical day on the streets of the capital: “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.”

The organisers said that the duo’s achievements “represent the very best of Ireland – strength, perseverance and generosity of spirit”, along with being people whose talent and commitment to excellence has brought pride to Ireland.

Catherine Martin, Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, said it is fitting to have the proud Dubliners at the helm. 

“Parade 2022 promises to be the most ambitious yet, offering an exciting new look and feel for millions of viewers in Ireland and across the world,” they continued, promising that it will be a spectacular global celebration of Irish arts, culture and heritage, following “the unparalleled challenges” of the pandemic. 

Included in the 2022 festivities is a ‘Festival Quarter’ at the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks which will be home to a day-to-night urban festival aimed, from March 16th to 20th.

It will also host the Irish Food & Craft Village, which aims to be a daily showcase of Ireland’s incredible produce, arts and crafts and a space for all to relax and connect. 

As well as being funded by the Government, it also receives support from Fáilte Ireland, Dublin City Council and a number of commercial partners.