21-07-2025
Walking Football stars unite for memorial event as Ayr United Football Academy puts best foot forward
The event was a fitting memorial to former walking footballer John Clark.
More than 60 players took part in the first John Clark Memorial Cup which the Ayr United Football Academy Walking Football programme held in conjunction with hosts Shoot Soccer in Ayr on Sunday, July 13, writes Scott Campbell.
The event was held to mark the 10th anniversary of the walking football programme at United and was named in honour of friend and former player John.
The group were delighted to have John's wife Ruth there to hand over the trophy and medals after eight teams made up of AUFA walking football regulars took part in a two-group tourney with league games before a knockout stage.
Somerset Strollers came out on top after beating Parkhouse Plodders in the final, while Walking Deaders beat Tryfield Trotters in the consolation event final, after a fantastic day with the focus on fun and enjoyment as much as winning and losing.
Players and friends enjoyed a social afternoon following the football, with a buffet and musical entertainment in the complex at Shoot.
The Academy holds regular weekly walking football sessions at Shoot on Monday and Friday mornings plus Wednesday evenings, as well as a Tuesday evening session in Troon.
A number of teams from the Academy have also regularly competed successfully in league and cup competitions throughout Scotland, the UK and abroad over the ten years of the programme, at various age levels from over 50 to over 70s.
