Volunteers praised as thousands enjoy Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games

The traditional Scottish showpiece was held in Bogle’s Field off Essendy Road on Sunday, September 8, in dry but overcast conditions

Approximately 3500 spectators enjoyed a wide variety of entertainment during this year’s successful Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games.

The traditional Scottish showpiece was held in Bogle’s Field off Essendy Road on Sunday, September 8, in dry but overcast conditions.

Held the day after the town’s well-attended Braemar Day celebrations, chieftain Laurence Blair Oliphant officially opened proceedings.

As well as the usual favourites – such as the Highland dancing, heavyweights and piping competitions – this year’s event saw some new attractions joining familiar faces.

Spectator participation was encouraged as the Ardblair Stones returned once again and anyone was invited to join in with the community tug o’ war, which pits a team from Blairgowrie against counterparts from Rattray using what is believed to be the longest rope of its kind in the country. The friendly battle was won 2-0 by Rattray this year.

And, for younger members of the family, Blairgowrie and District Rotary Club organised a mini Highland Games for children.

Pete Richardson, chair of the Blairgowrie and Rattray Highland Games committee, said: “We would like to say a very big thank you to everyone who came along and supported our Games.

“We are again delighted to The Proctor Group, our principal sponsor, for continuing its long association with the Games.

“The main opening event is Blairgowrie v Rattray community tug o’ war, on no doubt the longest rope in Scotland.

“This year it was Rattray who won the bragging rights as they won 2-0 in a well-fought battle!

“As well as the heavyweights, solo piping, Highland dancing and track and field events, the committee also arranged the Ardblair Stones – at their home Games – Infernal Unicorns, Blairgowrie and District Rotary Club, to run a mini Highland Games events for children to try, and Roman Tales to entertain children with their clown antics and many other family attractions.”

Pete continued: “It was a delight to welcome Dundee High School and Strathmore Schools pipe bands to join in with Blairgowrie, Rattray and District Pipe Band for the opening and closing ceremonies.

“And, with more than 70 trade and food stands on the day, there was something for everyone to enjoy.

“There were approximately 3500 people at Bogle’s Field, with nationalities from across the globe – all of whom had a wonderful day at the Games.

“I’d like to say a special thank you to the committee and team who helped to prepare for the big day and ensure everything ran as smoothly as possible.”

Holly Richardson, one of the programme conveners, said: “We are especially grateful to the 2519 Strathmore Squadron Air Cadet Force. They handled their roles with such fervour and went above and beyond by taking the initiative to go around the Games, engaging with spectators and offering them programmes.

“We are also, of course, grateful for all of our volunteers who helped on the day and it could not have been made possible without their help.

“They helped the Highland Games go off without a hitch and they were armed and ready – much like the Infernal Unicorns – for any questions thrown their way.”

Reflecting on the day, Blairgowrie and Glens Conservative councillor Caroline Shiers said: “Thank you to Pete Richardson and the Highland Games committee for another hugely successful event.

“There was an international crowd, who loved every minute of an event which is organised so well and puts Blairgowrie and Rattray very firmly on the Scottish Games calendar.”

SNP elected member Tom McEwan also praised the volunteers behind the event.

He commented “Year after year, the committee arranges a great event and this year was no different.

“It’s great being in Blairgowrie for Braemar Day and the Highland Games on the Sunday – the best regular calendar events in our local diary.”

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