McNeillie ‘chuffed’ to go one better in John O’Groats Strongest Man
Dave McNeillie admitted he’ll need a couple of weeks of recovery time after being crowned John O’Groats Strongest Man 2024.
The 36-year-old from Inverurie came through a series of gruelling tests of strength to see off the only other contender, Edinburgh’s Peter Borland.
McNeillie was runner-up last year but went one better this time to claim the £1000 cash prize and steel plate trophy.
“I’m chuffed,” McNeillie said at the end of Sunday’s three-hour competition at the large turning area beside John O’Groats harbour,
“I was second last year, so I was determined to come back this year and win it.
“It’s very hard on the body – I’ll need about a fortnight now to recover, then I’ve got to start preparing for the Scotland’s Strongest Man final.”
That event takes place at the SEC in Glasgow on September 21.
Organiser Kevin Macgregor had hoped to have four or five strongmen vying for the title, but the event was hit by a few late withdrawals.
“It's a shame, but the lack of local interest is the problem,” he said.
Although disappointed that only two competitors were left to battle it out, Macgregor was pleased with the number of spectators. The event is well supported by local businesses and Macgregor is assisted on the day by a band of volunteers.
“Everybody that has come has said it’s the best strongman competition they’ve been to,” Macgregor said.
The trophy is engraved with the winner’s name and it stays in the Seaview Hotel trophy cabinet.
The prize money has been a big incentive over the years.
Macgregor explained: “There's no committee doing this. It’s a lot to do yourself.
“This is the seventh year doing the competition and it’s the fourth year with £1000 prize money to the winner.”
McNeillie amassed 14 points across the seven challenges, while Borland picked up six points.
Commentator was Keith Muir.
Macgregor (32) won John O’Groats Strongest Man three times, in 2018, 2019 and 2020, before suffering an arm injury that prevented him competing in 2021 and 2022.
He had to settle for third place in 2023, having only returned to training seven months earlier. He was the referee this time.
The title went to Liam Goldie of Stirling last year.
