Sports are a rich part of Rochester's local Irish and Celtic history, beginning with the golden days of such groups as Rochester Harps Gaelic Football, a member of the Gaelic Athletic Association, Scottish soccer teams like the Thistles and Celtics, and Gaelic hurling teams that flourished in the 1840s.

Today, we live in a community where sports of all kinds continue to thrive and Irish participation is just as intense. And for those reasons, the committee looks to see the area's finest Irish and Celtic athletes, past and present, marching in the 2006 Parade.

Those interested in participating can call 234-5167 for a Parade application form, or go to the Parade website: www.rochesterparade.com . In the weeks and months leading up to March 11, 2006, the long history of Irish involvement in Rochester athletics will appear, in stories and pictures, on the web site.

The St. Patrick's Day Parade of Greater Rochester is a non-profit organization committed, through volunteer action, to providing the residents of Greater Rochester and beyond a dynamic, educational, and celebratory display of Irish and Celtic heritage in America. As a committee, we aspire to create an event that showcases Irish American and Celtic arts, entertainment, culture and history that is unequaled in its value and significance.

Those interested in participating can call 234-5167 for a Parade application form, or go to the Parade website: www.rochesterparade.com . In the weeks and months leading up to March 11, 2006, the long history of Irish involvement in Rochester athletics will appear, in stories and pictures, on the web site.