Bonner to be St Patrick's Day Grand Marshal
Former goalkeeper Packie Bonner will lead a green army through the streets of the capital this month at the annual St Patrick’s Day parade.
The ex-football star has netted the top role of Grand Marshal for the event, which is expected to attract more than 650,000 people.
Bonner will follow in the footsteps of former Ireland teammates Paul McGrath and Mick McCarthy and head the city centre spectacular.
This year’s Extraordinary World theme will see street performers wind their way along a bustling 3km route, which kicks off at Parnell Square.
Bonner, who won 80 caps for Ireland and now works as the FAI’s technical director, said leading the parade was a great honour.
“I hope that I can do the role justice like some of the greats who have gone before me,” he said.
“It has always been a great day and a great occasion for Ireland and this year I am sure it will be no different.”
The March 17 parade is part of a six-day St Patrick’s Festival of music, theatre, fireworks and dance.
The festival’s chief executive Susan Kirby said the Donegal goalkeeper was the ideal candidate to play Grand Marshal.
“Packie Bonner is the embodiment of our sporting Irish spirit,” she said.
“He is a marvellous ambassador for Ireland and sport and we are delighted he has accepted the role”.
Previous grand marshals include Kilkenny hurling star Henry Shefflin, the late Dubliner Ronnie Drew and Boyzone singers Ronan Keating and Keith Duffy.
More information on the festival can be found at www.stpatricksfestival.ie.
