Marty Gilfoy grew up in the beautiful community of Williams Point, a narrow spit of land along the south side of Antigonish, where the South River flows into Antigonish Harbour. The community became home to several families, including the MacFarlanes, McPhersons, McGillivrays, and Gilfoys. Marty was the son of Harold Gilfoy and Nellie (MacFarlane) Gilfoy.
Marty Gilfoy, as a young lad living in a community of large families, did what most young men did; they became athletes playing softball and hockey. Marty first played softball with his peers playing with the powerful “Pointer” junior softball team and later in the AGR (Antigonish–Guysborough Rural) league. In the winter, the young men played pond hockey, and then moved to the minor hockey system in Memorial Rink, on the campus of St. F.X. Marty played through the minor system up to Junior “B” Bulldogs, now in the Antigonish Arena.
At the 1979 Antigonish Games — known as the International Gathering of the Clans — a new competition, “The Old Ancient Scottish Heavy Events,” were introduced. This event immediately captured Marty’s attention. Around the same time, Marty’s cousin, Jim Sears, a friendly gentle giant and an outstanding caber tosser and hammer thrower was making a name for himself in the heavy events. For the next 32 years, Marty would follow his cousin’s lead, competing in and organising several provincial and Atlantic events. During his 25 years of sporting competition, Marty faced off with several international champions, enjoying numerous victories along the way.
After retiring from competition following a 25-year career, Marty devoted another seven years to coordinating junior camps and mentoring young athletes, helping to ensure the continued growth and success of the Scottish Heavy Events. Marty was also instrumental in encouraging two outstanding athletes, Fr. Doug MacDonald and Dr. Greg Hadley, to take up the sport. Both went on to achieve remarkable success, becoming local, provincial, Atlantic, and national champions. Their accomplishments eventually carried them to international competitions in Scotland and beyond, eventually becoming world caber champions.
Marty worked 47 years on the railroads. He has just retired from the CNR and a private company. He was known as a “Track Builder” on the rails from Truro to Sydney.
Marty is married to Barb “Hedges” McDonald and they have two children, Jeremy and Courtney. Marty and Barb still live at Williams Point and still watch with fondness the competitions at the Games.
It is interesting that the Antigonish Highland Games were first held on what was called Apple Tree Island, between the West River and the Right River. It was only a hammer’s throw from Williams Point.
Marty will be remembered as an outstanding athlete and builder for the Old Scottish Heavy Events during his 32 years at the Antigonish Highland Games.
Submitted by Bill Kiely