The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
It’ s game on at Glamis for Highland fun
Strathmore Highland Games is ready to roll out the welcome mat to a host of international visitors this weekend.
After a two-year break, organisers cannot wait to see the crowds back at Glamis Castle on Sunday.
Spectators from the US, Canada, Australia and across Europe have already snapped up tickets.
Competitors include an Hawaiian heavyweight and Australian Highland Dancers.
Highland Games bring a multi-million-pound boost to Scotland’s economy each year and the summer season is already back up and running.
Strathmore set their regular date and were determined to be back at the castle which has been the event’s home since 2000.
It was previously known as Forfar Highland Games and held in the town’s Lochside Park.
Lorna Cochrane, of the games committee, said: “After two years away, everyone is so excited to get back to it.
“There is so much positivity around things getting going again – and a real sense of relief.
“For the first time we have offered online ticket sales and we think that’s been a success.
“People like to plan ahead, especially if they’re visiting from abroad.
“It’s meant we’ve been able to see sales from around the world to people who will be coming to
enjoy the games on Sunday. But of course folk will still be able to pay at the gate on the day.
“And we have kept our prices pegged to try and make it a really good value family day out.”
Strathmore usually draws a crowd of around 1,800 spectators and a full competitive programme is lined up.
Lorna added: “We’ve added an extra junior heavies category this year. The junior cycling and running events are also looking strong.”
Gates open at 10am and the solo piping and junior heavies action will begin at 10.30. The official opening is at noon, by games chieftain Willie Oswald.
“Willie formerly worked
with Enstone Thistle and Breedon and has been a loyal supporter of the games since they began more than 50 years ago at Lochside Park in Forfar,” Lorna said.
“We are delighted to be able to show our appreciation to Willie and his wife, Sandra, this year by asking him to step into the role of chieftain.”