*Joe Russell. Photograph: Arthur Ellis.
GENERAL MANAGER of the Trump owned resort in West Clare, Joe Russell has been selected as the Grand Marshal for the St Patrick’s Day parade in Doonbeg.
Taoiseach, Micheál Martin (FF) will visit US President Donald Trump in The White House on March 17th in what has been described as a potential minefield.
Scenes in West Clare will be less tense and more celebratory that weekend when long-serving Managing Director of Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Ireland in Doonbeg, Joe Russell gets to act as Grand Marshal for the St Patrick’s Day parade in Doonbeg which will take place on Sunday March 15th from 15:30.
A native of Templemore in Tipperary, Joe has been General Manager in Doonbeg since 2003, the five star resort was purchased by the Trump family in 2014 with Donald going on to be elected US President on two occasions in the last twelve years.
His selection as Grand Marshal is in honour of the resort hosting the 2026 Amgen Irish Open in September. Before settling in Co Clare, Joe worked extensively in London and in The Berkely Court Hotel in Dublin, Jury’s Ballsbridge in Dublin and Thistle Marble Arch.
‘Legends’ is the theme of the 2026 St Patrick’s Day parade in Doonbeg. Community groups, businesses, clubs and families have been encouraged to get creative in celebrating local heroes, sporting greats, historical icons and folklore favourites. With €1,000 in prize money and trophies on offer, a strong and imaginative turnout is anticipated.
Fresh from celebrating ninety years, the Tulla Pipe Band will feature in the Doonbeg parade. A second marching band from Limerick will also add to the atmosphere. The parade line-up will also include a vintage tractor and car rally, face painting, a children’s disco and a community dog show.
Branded ‘the Pawrade, the dog show will take place earlier on the day. Registration is from 12:15 in the outside area of the Comerford Bar, Doonbeg. The Pawrade will then commence for the public showcase at 1pm.
Categories include best small, medium and large dog, best dress, veteran dog, best dog of the show, any variety puppy, terrier, rescue dog, child handing, teenage handling, adult handling, best fancy dress, dog with the waggiest tail and best dog show.
PRO of the Doonbeg St Patrick’s Day committee, Rita McInerney told The Clare Echo, “The Doonbeg St. Patrick’s Day Parade continues to be a cornerstone community event, made possible through the dedication of volunteers, local businesses and community organisations working together to create a memorable celebration. The committee warmly encourages community groups, sporting clubs, schools, businesses and families from across West Clare to participate and support what promises to be an outstanding weekend of celebration”.
