On games day you can enjoy highland dancing, piping, heavy-weights, athletics and even a hill race in Kinloch Rannoch!
Highland Games in Scotland are a unique and exciting event that draws visitors from all over the world. These games are a celebration of Scottish culture and heritage, featuring a variety of traditional sports and activities. From caber tossing to tug-of-war, the Highland Games offer something for everyone to enjoy.
The origins of the Highland Games can be traced back to the 11th century, when King Malcolm III organised a foot race to find the fastest runner in the land. Over time, the games evolved to include a wide range of activities, from strength and endurance tests to music and dance competitions. Today, the Highland Games are a beloved tradition in Scotland, with dozens of events held throughout the country each year.
Attending the Highland Games is an unforgettable experience, filled with excitement, energy, and a strong sense of community. Whether you're a spectator or a participant, you'll be swept up in the thrill of the games and the beauty of the Scottish landscape. So if you're looking for a truly unique and unforgettable adventure, make sure to add the Highland Games to your travel itinerary.
If you want to experience the essence of Highland Games, you must witness the traditional events. These competitions have been a part of Scottish culture for centuries, and they test the strength, skill, and agility of the participants. Here are some of the most popular traditional events you will see at the Highland Games:
Tossing the caber is perhaps the most iconic event at Highland Games. It involves lifting a long wooden pole, known as the caber, and tossing it in the air. The goal is to flip it end over end so that it lands as close to 12 o'clock as possible. The caber can weigh up to 150 pounds and can be up to 20 feet long, making it a challenging event even for the strongest athletes.
The Scottish hammer throw is another traditional event that requires immense strength and skill. Unlike the regular hammer throw, the Scottish version involves swinging a metal ball attached to a long wooden handle around your head and throwing it as far as possible. The athlete must stay within a designated throwing area and aim for a marked landing area.
The stone put is a simple yet challenging event that involves throwing a heavy stone as far as possible. The stone can weigh up to 28 pounds for men and 16 pounds for women. The athlete must stand in a designated throwing area and aim for a marked landing area.
The weight throw is similar to the hammer throw, but instead of a hammer, the athlete throws a metal weight attached to a short chain. The weight can weigh up to 56 pounds for men and 28 pounds for women. The athlete must stay within a designated throwing area and aim for a marked landing area.