Ireland’s national women’s marathon champion and Limerick’s own Ava Crean, has been announced by Limerick City and County Council 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.
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 17 March. Ava will be joined on the parade route by other athletes from the Back 2 Boston Running Club in Limerick.
Ava Crean was delighted to accept the invitation.
“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.”
Crowds will also gather for the 54th International Band Parade Championship on Sunday, 15 March, a highlight of the festival’s exciting programme.
Further festival 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.
