ST. PATRICK'S DAY PARADE 2002

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Overall Winner - 3+3 = SIK from CTBere Hospital		 Castletownbere was one of the exceptional places in Cork, where the weather did not spoil the St. Patrick's Day Parade Celebrations.  Rain in the morning had cleared to leave the afternoon bright and dry for all the participants, spectators and organisers alike.  This year, a large number of colourful floats from all different businesses, organisations etc. turned up to make it a huge success.  A large crowd turned out to view the parade and were entertained by Pat Holland and the ever popular MC for the afternoon, Teddy Black.
Castletownbere Business Development Association and Beara I.F.A. were the organisers of this event again this year.  Last year, due to the Foot and Mouth Crisis, the parade was cancelled - as it was all over Ireland.  The parade was led by the F.C.A.

Some of the floats participating included
3+3=SIK:  This float contained members of the Staff of Castletownbere Hospital - 6 of whom impersonated the controversial 'Six' - winners of the Popstars Programme in RTE earlier this year - 2 of whom impersonated the Judges of the competition Linda Martin and Louis Walsh - all driven by Ambulance Driver, Liam Hanley.  Running after the float was another member - impersonating Nadine - who missed out in the group because of her age. This was judged as the overall winner on the day.

Dunboy Riding Stables had a beautiful display of Hoses and Ponies all groomed in their riding gear and sporting shamrock - for the day that it was.

Honda Gold-Wing Motorcycles - a large fleet of them - with a small Yamaha bike following on behind - driven by Gerard Brennan, Haulage

Beara I.F.A. - with their display of Spring Lambs, Chickens etc.

Castletownbere Boat Club - with their gig - on O'Sullivan's Trailer

Beara Bord na nOg and various GAA & underage groups in Beara

C.T.Bere Fishermen's Co-Op - with their 'Pirates' Float.

Castletownbere Fire Brigade - in full uniform

Beara Ladies Football - led by mentor Sean Power

To view larger photos of parade - click on images below
Dunboy Riding School.jpg (41803 bytes) Co-Op1.jpg (46919 bytes) Coastguard.jpg (36875 bytes) FCA.jpg (49545 bytes)
Beara Ladies.jpg (63892 bytes) Youth Group.jpg (45172 bytes) Fire Brigade.jpg (61437 bytes)

Photos - thanks to John Eagle, Niall Duffy & Self