Strength, Family, and Dedication: The World of Garry 'Garr' MacDonald
My name is Garry “Garr” MacDonald, a 32-year-old father of three: two boys, Ethan and Gavin, and one girl, Shyanne. For the past 13 years, I've built my career in the oil and gas industry as a pipefitter and a Level 3 Rope Tech. However, my greatest passion lies in strongman competitions. I am a two-time u120kg Alberta champion, currently ranked second in Canada in the u120kg class, and placed 9th at the Arnold Strongman Competition. I've qualified for the Official Strongman Games and this year's Canadian Nationals, marking my seventh showing. I hold four Canadian records in the Strongman Corporation standings: two for log press, one for axle press, and one for sandbag toss.
Training with my partners, Darcy and Brent, on Strongman Sundays is a highlight for me. We train in a competitive yet fun environment, pushing each other to improve. My training is further enriched by working with some of the strongest people in Canada and around the world.
I have a passion for a good BBQ T-bone ‘Berta Beef steak at the end of my day. I don't drink and am proudly 3 years and 9 months sober. Spending time with my kids, swimming, hiking, or just being outdoors away from screens, brings me immense joy.
My journey into strongman began about nine years ago. After an ICU stay following a vehicle fire accident, I had given up on training. However, my aunt's comment about my weight prompted me to get back into shape. I dropped from 210 pounds to 167 in six months and then started rebuilding muscle. Seven years ago, someone suggested I try strongman, and I was instantly hooked. Now, my family is invested in it too. Laura competes, my oldest boy had his first competition in May, my daughter loves to deadlift and do pull-ups, and my middle boy enjoys playing with the weights.
Fitness Philosophy: Practicality and Strength
When I think of fitness, I consider how it applies to the real world and whether it can make life more comfortable in the long run. Over the years, I've experimented with various training styles, each serving a purpose. However, strongman training resonates most with me. My goal has always been to help when needed, inspired by stories of people performing extraordinary feats of strength in emergencies.
Every day, I think about my goals for both strongman and my family. I want to be one of the best and aspire to be an active, strong grandparent in my old age. With guidance from my coach, Denis Lebrech at Valkyrie Strength Club, I train 4 to 5 days a week, focusing on heavy compound lifts and strongman event days.
Nutrition and Discipline
My nutrition revolves around a high protein intake, aiming for 280 grams per day. While I do supplement with protein shakes and creatine, I prioritize real food. Balancing calories, especially during bulking phases, is essential, and I'm open about not being a natural athlete. Regular blood work ensures my health, and despite the advantage in recovery, hard work and proper diet are non-negotiable.
Balancing Life and Strongman
Balancing life as a strongman, father, and worker can be challenging, but my family understands and supports my passion. I value our time together, whether it's swimming, BBQing, or my daughter slapping me before a deadlift in competition. I believe in earning everything in life and instill this value in my children.
MOTIVATION IS STUPID AS FUCK; discipline and goals are what truly drives me. Setting goals, whether for this weekend or 20 years from now, keeps me focused. My goals include winning the Arnold U120kg strongman, buying a farm for my family and animals, living long and healthy enough to enjoy my great-grandchildren, and being that strong old guy.
Wisdom and Advice
Strongman has taught me valuable lessons. For instance, never underestimate your competition, as I learned when Darcy beat me by one point after I joked about winning. Consistency in training, especially deadlifts, is key to getting stronger. Despite the intimidating appearance, strongman competitors are often the kindest and shyest people around.
I’ve even competed with a broken foot, demonstrating that strongman requires resilience and determination. For parenting advice, I recommend "How to Listen So Kids Will Talk - How to Talk So Kids Will Listen," which is also great for dealing with adults.
In conclusion, my journey is about strength, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of my goals. Whether in strongman competitions or life, I strive to be a role model for my children and inspire others to work hard and achieve their dreams.
Garry is an awesome guy and always willing to help. When I had my affiliated he did some strongman classes with the intent to grow the sport in Cape Breton, I don’t think the island was quite ready for it yet, but the dedication to grow it was what mattered. I did some of the classes and they were actually super great. Give him a follow or reach out, he is always willing to help! @_sir.smilesalot
