Strathearn Herald

Blackford gets ready for great games day

Final countdown

- Iain Howie

Blackford will get the local Highland games season under way on Saturday.

One- time wrestler Andy Robin is to be guest of honour at the event after accepting the role of cheiftain.

Mr Robin is famed for also being the owner, along with wife Maggie, of Hercules the Bear.

Crowds will be treated to a host of sports and other activities, from cycling and running to heavyweigh­ts and Highland dancing.

This year’s Blackford Gala Queen is Tegan McLaren with attendants Millie Williams and Iona Shedden.

They will officially open the games at 1pm but events will be held through the morning and well into the afternoon.

Competitor­s from around the country have already signed up to participat­e for the Scottish Tug o’ War Championsh­ips.

They are sponsored by Tullibardi­ne Distillery, while Highland Spring is backing the Highland dancing.

The heavyweigh­ts section is being split into two fields, one for Perthshire entrants and the other for the open competitio­n.

A number of overseas competitor­s are expected to flex their muscles, especially in the British championsh­ip 28lb for distance.

Comrie Pipe Band will entertain throughout the day, with a fun fair, catering and bar facilities also available.

The games are held at the Highland Games Park in Blackford.

Entry is £6 for adults, £1 for children, £4 for senior citizens and students. Car parking is £1.

The Perthshire heavyweigh­t event starts at 10.30am and the remainder of the games opens at 12.30pm.

 ??  ?? Test of strength Heavyweigh­t Scott Rider in action last year
Test of strength Heavyweigh­t Scott Rider in action last year

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