(LIMERICK, Ireland) — Doherty High School is celebrating the achievements of the Spartan Legion Marching Band after it earned top honors at the 53rd Annual Limerick International Band Championship on Sunday, March 16, in Limerick, Ireland. The band won Best International Band and the prestigiou s Overall Parade Champion, marking the second time in a decade that the band has claimed both categories at Ireland's international band championship. Courtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching Band Director Angelo Sapienza The Spartan Legion competed against 11 groups from the United States and Ireland in front of thousands of spectators, performing "Love Runs Out" by OneRepublic, as a tribute to the band's Colorado Springs roots. "We are thrilled to have represented our school and Colorado Springs so well today," said Angelo Sapienza, director of the Spartan Legion. "To even have the opportunity to share our music with an international stage is an incredible achievement for our students, and we couldn’t be prouder of how they carried themselves in both the performance and in interactions with the other bands and our audience. They made Sparta proud today!" Courtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching BandCourtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching BandCourtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching BandCourtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching BandCourtesy: Doherty High School Spartan Legion Marching Band "This experience has been truly unforgettable for our students," said Assistant Band Director, Ashley Civelli. "They’ve not only demonstrated their musical and marching excellence but have also formed lifelong memories. Seeing them rise to this moment and represent Doherty with such pride has been incredible." The International Band Championship is one of the flagship events of the Limerick St. Patrick's Festival each year. The Spartans were presented with the silver perpetual Trophy by the Mayor of Limerick, John Moran. "The talent and dedication displayed by all the bands today were truly remarkable. Limerick is proud to host such an inspiring event that brings together music lovers from near and far," said Moran. Doherty's Spartan Legion will perform at the Cork St. Patrick's Day parade on Monday, March 17, before they return to the U.S. on March 22, after enjoying a tour of the Irish countryside. ...read more read less