When I first started throwing in the Scottish Highland Games, I didn’t account for a lot of things. I had no idea to the amount of hours I would spend throwing in a field. I had no idea how many times I’d run through technique in my mind or mimic throws in my kitchen. I had no idea the sheer rush of adrenaline after a 12:00 throw or a big throw in the last round. This new world of throwing proved to be far more than I dreamed, and the experiences far more vast.
When I turned pro in 2007, Natalie, my wife, as ked me what I wanted to get out of being a “pro” and how long I wanted to do it. My goal, at the time, was pretty simple – have a blast throwing against the best this country has to offer. You see, at the time I had no grand plans of pursuing this at the international level as I figured I lacked the ability to do so.
In the fall of 2007 we discussed the length of my professional career, and, I asked Natalie for five years as a pro. I wanted to qualify for Nationals and compete as best I could for those five years. Fast forward 10 years, and I’m on five years of borrowed time.
In respect for my family and the sacrifices they’ve made through the years for me, I’ve decided that 2017 will be my final season in the Highland Games. Now, I’m not done lifting and training – far from it. For the past 23 years, I’ve been throwing something, and training to throw it as far as possible, and it’s time for me to leave my cleats on the field.
I have plans to pursue some other goals and I’ll outline those after this season, but for now, I’m focused on closing out my final season on a high note. I’ll be competing in the below schedule and working to win as many comps as I can.
August 5 – Detroit Highland Games
September 2 – World Championships, Hank, Holland
September 9 – Long’s Peak Highland Games, Estes Park, CO
September 16, 17 – New Hampshire Highland Games, Loon Mountain, NH
September 23, 24 – Celtic Classic, Bethlehem, PA
The Celtic Classic will be my final time throwing, and I’m sure a very emotional couple of days as I close this chapter of my life at one of my favorite places to throw. This journey has been an amazing one, and I’m so thankful for the experiences God has blessed me with, and the people He has brought into my life through this sport. I’ve grown so much over the years, and God has taught me so much about life and people through this sport, but this chapter needs to end as a new one begins for me and my family. This journey has been far beyond my expectations and dreams; thank you all for being a part of it, and I look forward to many years of friendship ahead.
TROB
There’s a pair of crocs waiting for you once you hang up those cleats big man.
Jaena
It’s been a blessing to knowntou and I have really enjoyed the few Sunday morning studies you taught at the games! You been an great steward of the gospel and I know that you will continue to share whereever you are! With 5 boys getting older, I’m surprised you’ve been able to doing it as long as you have. And what a gift to have had the support of your wife through it! Praying for you and your family as you move in another direction, you and that big ole smile of yours will be missed! go with God’s grace, and all for His glory!
RJ SUTHERLAND
You will be missed. You are a great inspiration of what it means to be fiercely competitive and yet not become so consumed that you have missed Gods calling on your life to be the best dad, husband and rolemodel to those closest to you and to those you come in contact with. I pray that God continues to use you beyond your abilities and expectations and watches over you family
Coach Read
God will open new exciting door for you. Very proud to be a tiny part of your throwing experiences❤️
CHris BUckalew
The HG world will miss you, you’ve been a terrific champion and ambassador for the sport.