Whenever I watch international sporting events, I’m always struck by just how many of the world’s countries have national anthems that you don’t have to be Whitney Houston to sing properly. Ireland is one of those countries – and I’d place its unofficial anthem, “Ireland’s Call,” among the very best. So, in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, here’s the Irish rugby team and thousands of proud Irish men & women belting it out:

I have several professional Irishmen in my family (my last name’s Jenkins, but my other 3 grandparents last names are Kennedy, Keefe and Gallagher), and I know I’d hear from them if I didn’t point out that Ireland’s Call isn’t the Republic of Ireland’s official anthem, and that it’s used at rugby matches for reasons that reflect the Emerald Isle’s sad & divided history.

Still, it’s a terrific song and one that both North & South are increasingly proud to sing together. I think that’s something we can all lift a glass to on this St. Patrick’s Day.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all of you actual or honorary sons & daughters of Erin!

– John Jenkins