In 2023, the World Stone Skimming Championship was won by 17-year-old Finn Dower on the isle of Easdale in the Scottish Hebrides. Dower, who had come close to the title on three previous occasions, finally secured the championship on his fourth attempt.
Subsequent to his victory, Dower recounted to The Hockey Paper how his training for stone skimming unexpectedly led to an improvement in his arm strength, which in turn, benefitted his burgeoning hockey career. Despite facing formidable competition, Dower emerged triumphant, securing the championship with his skill and determination.
Having discovered stone skimming after relocating to Perthshire, Dower also developed an interest in hockey, joining his secondary school team. His fervour for the sport impelled him to strive for success both on and off the field.
The correlation between stone skimming and hockey became apparent as Dower observed that the core strength and body rotation needed in stone skimming also proved advantageous in playing hockey. Since then, he has ascended to the position of captain of his school’s hockey team and, playing for Perthshire HC, has even earned a place in the Scottish Hockey’s Brave Academy.
Dower emphasised the social aspect of playing hockey, underlining how it afforded him the opportunity to forge new friendships and collaborate as part of a team. He also disclosed that his most memorable hockey experience occurred when his boys’ team triumphed over the girls’ 1st XI at school, an achievement that elicited excitement and pride throughout the team.
While Dower aspires to continue playing hockey at a high level, he also intends to uphold his title in the World Stone Skimming Championships and potentially participate in other prestigious competitions, such as the European Championship.
With Dower’s dedication to excelling in both stone skimming and hockey, it is evident that he is a multi-talented athlete, and his resolve and accomplishments have already positioned him as a rising star in the world of sports. As he continues to advance and thrive, the sports community keenly anticipates his future triumphs on the stone skimming stage as well as on the hockey field.