Kelyn Cassidy for Grand Marshall; A top-class boxer, 24-year old Kelyn represents the Saviour’s Crystal Club in Waterford City and is also a member of the Irish Amateur Boxing Team. The Waterford athlete is the reigning and back-to-back National Senior Elite Light Heavyweight champion and reached the quarter-finals of the last World Championships in Belgrade.
Speaking at the reveal of Cassidy as this year’s Grand Marshall, Mayor of Waterford City & County, Cllr. John O’Leary said:
“Kelyn was a wonderful suggestion as Grand Marshall this year, as our theme is “The Best of Waterford”. He is a true champion in the ring, and a gentleman outside it. I have no doubt he will be a leader in our community in years to come. I’d like to congratulate him on being named the Grand Marshall for this special day in our annual calendar.”
Cassidy cites the people of Waterford as a big inspiration when he is competing in the boxing ring. Speaking to Waterford City & County Council Communications Office, he said:
“I receive amazing support from home whenever I’m competing abroad. My family and club are always behind me, and I know the people of Waterford are too. I’ll be counting on their support this year as I attempt to qualify for the Paris 2024 Olympic team. That process starts in Poland this June at the European games.”
Chairperson of the festival organising committee, Johnny Codd added :
“Kelyn’s recent victories, including becoming a two-time National Elite Champion, have inspired us all and we are proud to have him represent Waterford on our national holiday.”
The theme for this year is ‘The Best of Waterford” and the festival will feature many exciting entries from Waterford’s people and community groups, showcasing our diverse culture, famous heritage, and our musical and burgeoning artistic talent.
On Friday 17th March, Waterford St. Patrick’s Day parade will start, as usual, at 1pm, with entries gathering at the Bridge Street end of the Quay. The parade leads off from the Bus Station and will proceed along the Quay, past the Clock Tower and the Plaza, concluding at the Parnell Street end of the Mall.
