Women to debut in heavyweight contest at Blackford
The hard- working volunteers behind Blackford Highland Games are set to break new ground this year.
The 152nd edition of the traditional Scottish showpiece is expected to attract thousands of spectators to the village on Saturday, May 25.
And, this year, the busy programme is to feature a ladies’ heavyweight competition for the first time.
The action will begin at 10.30am on the day, at the same time as the returning Junior Heavyweights Championships.
Organisers of what is traditionally the region’s first Highland Games of the year stressed the emphasis was on making an effort to ensure the historic events are accessible to everyone.
A spokesperson for the committee added: “One of our things has always been to build Blackford up every year and make sure that there’s always something that will make people want to come to the village.
“There wouldn’t be a Games here, though, if it wasn’t for the support of our sponsors and the community, which is something we’ve always been very grateful for.”
Led by talented members of Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Pipe Band, the chieftain’s parade starts at 12.30pm before the official opening in the arena at around 1pm.
In a tradition which dates back to the 1970s, current village Gala Queen, Emma Reid, will officially open the event.
The ceremonial duties on the day will be performed by chieftain Archie Stirling, of Keir and Cawder Estates.
The committee spokesperson continued: “Mr Stirling, owner of the Games Park, has a long association with Blackford and has kindly agreed to lead our Games this year, which is now in its 154th year.”
In a further test of physical endurance, the now annual Blackford Highland Games trail race has been extended to include a route stretching for 10 kilometres.
Meanwhile, Highland dancing starts at around 11am and the junior solo piping and primary practice chanter contests begin at around the same time.
The gates themselves open at 10.30am on the day and tickets are £ 10 for adults and £ 5 for children and concessions.