Games chiefs say events will be back in 2021 after total wipeout

Communities across Scotland may be reeling after this year’s highland games calendar was completely wiped out, but the games are nothing if not resilient.

That’s the view of Scottish Highland Games Association (SHGA) secretary Ian Grieve, who has insisted the showpiece events will be back in 2021.

He said: “The calendar of highland games this year may now be empty, but that doesn’t mean we’re sitting back.

“We have a few surprises already and more on the way.”

With all their 60-plus member games now confirmed as cancelled, 2020 will have none of the traditional events, some of which have been running for centuries.

It also leaves many small communities without their only gathering of townsfolk, often the only

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We’re already planning for next year to come back stronger and better.

IAN GRIEVE

place locals can participate in sports in front of a crowd.

The impact on local economies, tourism and small traders who bring their crafts to the games is keenly felt.

However, the SHGA says some members around the country have tackled the situation with surprising responses.

Ian said: “Strathmore has shown online how to make a fun caber for kids, Aboyne has an online solo piping competition, Ballater will be raising the standard and inviting supporters to send in clips, Stirling is lining up some virtual activities which people can participate in, and we have others looking to do more with online resources to deliver something that will interest, excite and entertain.

“We’re already planning for next year, to come back stronger, better and welcome back supporters and friends.”