The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Good Crieff: Highland gatherings draw big crowds to games.
Thousands enjoy packed line-up of events at Crieff and Rannoch
Two of the most popular events in Scotland’s Highland games calendar took place in Perthshire at the weekend.
Thousands flocked to Highland gatherings at Crieff and Kinloch Rannoch. Organisers lined up a packed programme of traditional contests, live music and entertainment.
The Rannoch gathering dates back to 1881 and was held at Welly Poley Park on Saturday.
The show featured a traditional lineup of heavy events, piping, Highland dancing and track and field events.
According to organisers, the historic event is the “real deal” and “not specially laid on for tourists”.
Scores of runners took part in the hill race, up and down Craig Varr. The one-mile event was first introduced in 1958 and was originally intended for shepherds, keepers and local residents.
Among the highlights at Crieff’s Highland Gathering were a visit from army bands from New Zealand and Nepal.
The Ryder Cup was also on display in the arena, watched over by chieftain David Murchie who is a professional at Crieff Golf Club and chairman of the PGA.
The gathering introduced a new attraction this year, a Taste of Tartan food marquee offering the best of Scottish fare and local produce.
Chef Jason Henderson of Knock Castle spent the afternoon serving up cookery demonstrations and samples.
The programme featured traditional competitions including the heavyweight, native heavyweight and light field Scottish championships as well as athletics, cycling and tug o’ war contests.