Kincardine’s Amanda Farrell Walsh Competes in World Masters Games

URGENT UPDATE: Kincardine native Amanda Farrell Walsh is set to compete in the World Masters Highland Games this weekend in Jackson, Mississippi. The event kicks off on October 14, 2023, and features over 200 athletes aged between 40 and 80 years old.

Farrell Walsh, aged 51, has been a dedicated competitor in Highland Games for the past eight years. She first took on the sport after a personal challenge, stating, “I had frozen shoulder and thought I wasn’t ready to give up on physically challenging myself.” Her journey began when her son expressed interest in learning the Highland Games, leading them both to a training school in Fergus, Ontario.

The World Masters Highland Games include nine events, such as the stone put, weight for distance, sheave toss, and the iconic caber toss. Farrell Walsh expressed her excitement, saying, “I didn’t even think an invite would come for another couple of years. So, I’m just super excited to be invited.”

This competition marks her first time challenging herself against the world’s top Highland athletes. The emotional significance is amplified as she reflects on her dream of competing in Scotland, where she had the opportunity to wear her Mackay tartan and kilt. “It was a dream come true,” she shared.

Farrell Walsh aims to inspire others in her age group to embrace challenges that may seem daunting. “Find your race. Find your thing and get started,” she advised, emphasizing the importance of being open to new experiences.

As the competition approaches, her competitive spirit shines through. She humorously noted, “If I were to crack top 10, you’ll hear me screaming from Mississippi.”

With the World Masters Highland Games just days away, the excitement builds for both athletes and fans. Stay tuned for updates as Farrell Walsh and her fellow competitors prepare to showcase their strength and skill in this historic event.