Shorecrest students had many experiences to remember from trip to Ireland

Shorecrest Highlanders march in Celbridge Parade
Photo by Ed Coleman

By Mary Grassley, Chair, Dublin Dollars

The Shorecrest High School Marching Band, Pipers, Lassies and Flag team recently returned from a 10 day trip to Ireland, where they marched in Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Festival Parade, the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Celbridge, Ireland, and the marching band competition parade in Limerick, Ireland. 

Highland Dancers pose at Rock of Cashel
Photo by Sean Bouffiou

The group of 136 students proudly won awards for Best Youth Band in the Dublin festival and Best International Band in the Limerick parade. The students toured throughout Ireland and also performed in Cobh and Athlone to the excitement and appreciation of the local communities.

The band was accompanied by staff from Shorecrest High School and parent chaperones. They learned about Irish history and culture and visited castle ruins. In Athlone, they were able to spend time in local schools, where they participated in hurling and rugby, as well as interacting with the local students.

The Shorecrest Pipers in Ireland
Photo courtesy Kevin Auld

For nine months prior to the trip, the group actively fundraised, and raised over $42,000. All of the fundraising work paid off for them. The students had an experience they will always remember, and proudly brought home awards and gifts from each community that welcomed them.