Highland Games

Why don't we see more club runners at the Highland Games and Gatherings around the country these days? This weekend there is the two day Callander Games, the one day meets at Airth, Lochearnhead and Luss and if you want to go further there is a two day Gathering in Edinburgh and another at Halkirk. The prize money is good but the main reasons are to do with enjoyment. You get around the country - last week was Balloch, next week it is Strathallan and there re others all round the country. You can try different events [most have either a road race (like Strathallan) or a short hill race (like Alva and Lochearnhead)] as well as a series of handicapped track races over 800, 1500 and usually 1600 as well. You also need to vary your training and racing - this is an ideal way to do it. All ages are able to compete, men and women are in the same races and usually there is a fair or showground as well. It is a great day out and you can round it off with a meal away from the usual places. Dad can run on the roads, the youngsters can compete in their own events and everyone can have a good time. I remember Cyril and family at a meeting where Cyril won the Men's race, wife Noreen won the women's race, daughter Moira won the girls event and Pat, his other daughter who had asthma, won the beauty contest! Then there are all the stories attached to the meetings - John Maclachlan at Strathallan lying flat out after the two miles team race with his head protruding over the white line on to the track just as the cyclists were starting their race: almost beheaded by bicycle wheel! Maureen McChesney or one of her team mates hitting the relay baton from the corner flag which was in place for another event and dropping it to see the team disqualified. Emmet Farrell of Maryhill returning from the road race at Babcock's Sports only to see the Orange Walk passing in front of the entrance to Moorcroft Park: he waited for a gap and nicked through but was severely beaten about the head and body for breaking the line. A total disgrace.
So come on, do a couple of Games to get your handicap up then win some money. And give you your family a good day out into the bargain.