Navigation
  • 3 January, 2026

Pa O’Dwyer : 1985-2026

Giants Live pays tribute to strength legend, family man & all around amazing human Pa O’Dwyer who has died at the age of 40

A message from Giants Live director & World’s Strongest Man tournament director Darren Sadler after the saddest of weekends:

“The outpouring of love from the strength family since we learnt of Pa’s death on Saturday has been humbling and overwhelming – but also no surprise.

“Pa O’Dwyer was a formidable athlete, a fearless competitor and a gentleman. The tributes from his fellow strongmen, the people he battled fiercely but supported every step of the way, have been heartbreaking to read for us all. And, the thing that is the most clear – as it was to anyone who met him – was his devotion to his family above all others. His love for Layna was stronger than anything he faced competing, as was the devotion to his children, Sienna, Rocco and Freddy.

“They now face life without their dad and partner, but we – his friends and the entire strongman community – will be there for them every step of the way. That is abundantly clear from the amazing response to Eddie’s fundraiser. It proves yet again that no matter where you are or who you support, strongman is a family – and a strong one at that.

“Pa will be much missed by everyone. We will never forget him. And, at the right time, and in discussion with his family, we will remember him in the most suitable way.

“For now, our love and thoughts continue to be with Layna, his children, his family and his friends.”

With the family’s permission, a GoFundMe has been set up to help with memorial arrangements and to support them through the practical challenges ahead:

👉 https://gofund.me/94d1c5b4f

From everyone at Giants Live and we are sure we speak on behalf of the entire Strongman community:
Rest in Power, Pa. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. With our love.