Kilmallock is gearing up for St Patrick’s day at home in Limerick and abroad in America

KILMALLOCK is gearing up at home and abroad for St Patrick’s Day parades with locals set to lead the way.

The grand marshall of the parade in the Baalbec is a man who knows a thing about being on the podium - Paul Gammell. The passionate cyclist has raced in prestigious events, founded a bike shop and played a pivotal role in bringing the Rás Tailteann, an international cycling race, to Kilmallock for the first time in 2024.

Mr Gammell will lead the way in Kilmallock’s St Patrick’s Day parade on Sunday, March 16 at 1pm. However, he won’t be the only person with links to the town to put their best forward for Lá Fhéile Pádraig.

Former Rose of Tralee Róisín Wiley, of the well-known Kilmallock family, has been chosen as grand marshall for the upcoming Eastchester St Patrick’s day parade in the US. Proud dad, Eddie said it is the local town in Westchester County, north of New York city, where Róisín grew up.

Not too far away in Bergen County, New Jersey, a Kilmallock and Millmount native has the honour of being aide to their parade’s grand marshall. Anne Kenneally Viru will represent Kilmallock with aplomb.

Paul could easily cycle between Eastchester and Bergen County  to see Roisin and Anne but he will be busy at home.

A spokesperson for Kilmallock Community Council said Paul’s dedication and passion for cycling in Kilmallock has made a lasting impact on the local community. 

“Paul has lived in Kilmallock all his life and has made major contributions to Kilmallock through his work promoting cycling and adding to the town through his business Kilmallock Cycles and more recently bringing the Ras Tailteann, an international cycling race to Kilmallock for the first time in 2024,” said the spokesperson.

Paul is married to Ber and they have four children - John, Michelle, Lorna and Sandra - and have two grandchildren Toby and Emily. 

A year of planning and preparation was completed by Paul and the Ras Tailteann race organisers to make sure this spectacular stage finish came to the streets of Kilmallock. 

“This was a positive and historic day for Kilmallock. It was a day Kilmallock will never forget,” said the spokesperson, who is looking forward to another day the town will never forget on March 16.

READ MORE: A More Fun Limerick: St Patrick’s Festival set to light up city and county

This year’s theme is “Movie magic - The Oscars” with €200 on offer for best overall entry and €100 each for best club/group entry; children's entry and topical entry.

Organisers also have a 50/50 draw, plus lucky dips, with last year's winner taking home €1,320. Tickets on sale locally. Kilmallock Community Council says all groups and individuals are welcome to take part. 

For more information on the town's parade please see their Facebook page.