Marathon champion Ava Crean named as Grand Marshal of Limerick city St Patrick’s Day Parade

LIMERICK City and County Council has announced Limerick’s own Ava Crean, Ireland’s national women’s marathon champion, as the Grand Marshal of the Limerick city St Patrick’s Day Parade 2026. 

This year’s parade, part of the Limerick St Patrick’s Festival, celebrates the theme Legends of Limerick - honouring remarkable figures from across the city and county’s rich heritage, past and present.

Ava’s meteoric rise in athletics has captured national attention. At just 19 years old, she became the youngest ever Irish women’s marathon champion at the 2025 Irish Life Dublin Marathon, clocking a personal best of 2:34:12 and finishing sixth overall.

Since only beginning competitive marathon running in April 2025, Ava has also claimed notable victories at the Regeneron Great Limerick Run and the Charleville International Half Marathon.

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The Limerick city St Patrick’s Day Parade will once again wind through the heart of the city in a colourful celebration of community spirit and culture on March 17. Ava will be joined on the parade route by other athletes from the Back 2 Boston Running Club in Limerick.

Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, says Ava is an ideal choice for Grand Marshal:

“Ava Crean is a shining example of what can be achieved with dedication, talent, and community support. She embodies the very spirit of Limerick’s legends - not only for her extraordinary performances on the road but for the way she is already inspiring young people across our region.”

Ava Crean was delighted to accept the invitation, saying:

“I am honoured to be named Grand Marshal of the Limerick city St Patrick’s Day Parade. Representing Limerick in this year’s Legends of Limerick festival feels incredibly special - especially after such an unforgettable season. I hope to inspire our community to chase their own goals with passion and pride.”

Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery described Ava Crean as a ‘living legend’ and said:

“This year’s theme, Legends of Limerick, celebrates extraordinary stories from our past and present. Ava’s journey from local runner to national champion brings that theme to life, and we are thrilled to welcome her as this year’s Parade Grand Marshal.”

Director General, Limerick Council, Dr Pat Daly, added that Limerick St Patrick’s Festival 2026 is shaping up to be another great community celebration:

“We are delighted to have Ava at the centre of Limerick’s largest St Patrick’s Day Parade, along with members of her athletics club, Back 2 Boston. Her involvement adds even more excitement to what promises to be a fantastic Limerick St Patrick’s Festival 2026. I look forward to the unveiling of the full programme of events later this month, including the return of the International Band Parade Championship, vibrant community activities, and a special St Patrick’s Eve event, all of which will make Limerick a truly desirable destination.”

Crowds will also gather for the 54th International Band Parade Championship on Sunday, March 15, a highlight of the festival’s exciting programme. Each year, thousands line the streets of Limerick as marching bands from across Ireland, Europe, the UK and the United States bring colour, energy and music to the city.

On the eve of St Patrick’s Day, Limerick Council is planning an exciting event to boost Limerick’s nighttime economy offering in the city.

Further details will be announced later this month, along with the launch of a digital guide showcasing Council and community led events and initiatives celebrating Ireland’s Patron Saint.