The Oban Times

Morvern games and gala week celebrates 30 years

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Morvern games gala week will celebrate its 30th anniversar­y this year. The week starts on Saturday July 15 with the Morvern Highland Games at Knock Park, Lochaline.

Hailed as one of the most scenic games in Scotland, the location at Knock Park overlookin­g the mouth of Loch Aline and the Sound of Mull is quite spectacula­r.

Former games and gala week chairman (1987-93) Stuart Jackson explains how the event was started.

‘There had been a games and children’s sports in years gone by, but both had been in abeyance for a number of years until the Sporting Club of Lochaline instigated their revival.

‘Many of us had enjoyed the benefits of growing up in the area and had taken part in the myriad community activities that helped shape our formative years, so we did not want to deny our children the same experience­s.

‘I am delighted that not only did we create an event that the community supported but that our expectatio­ns have been exceeded, as here we are 30 years on and still going.’

Stuart also gives us some personal thoughts: ‘I am very glad that both my sisters, Mairi and Riona, choose to serve on subsequent committees, however, my family ties go back more than 60 years, when my grandfathe­r, Jimmy Macgregor, was games secretary.

‘As a family, we are extremely proud that this year’s winner of the Morvern mile will receive a trophy in memory of my grandfathe­r.

‘I hope that the Morvern games and gala week goes on from strength to strength and that, more importantl­y, the whole community enjoys and participat­es in this wonderful event.’

To mark the 30th year, the committee decided that the games field would benefit from a facelift and, with financial support from Morvern Community Trust and Ardtornish Hydro Fund, purchased new fencing and seating.

July 15 – Highland games and sports. Junior sports commence at 10.30am. Official opening by the chieftain at noon followed by senior sports.

Lochaline Social Club with entertainm­ent from Rock’n’Reel from 9pm.

July 16 – Duck race, Morvern run, regatta and clay shot.

July 17 – Table tennis tournament, sand mine tour, bowls.

July 18 – Orienteeri­ng, distillery open day, bingo, Highland Hussle.

July 19 – Heritage Society walk , church teas, dog agility, yoga, quiz.

July 20 – Highland herbal walk, Crombie shooting, football, producers’ market and pool competitio­n.

July 21 – Sporting fun, rodeo race night, crab catching and MS charity day.

July 23 – Ladies’ shinty match and survivors’ dance.

For more details contact Riona Whyte on rionawhyte­551@gmail. com, 0755 488 5304.

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