Athletics

All athletes are selected by invitation only. Invitations will start going out in July and August.
The Clan Challenge competition will be held on Sunday at 1:00pm. Registration for clan challenge will be at the Athletics field Saturday all day and before 12:00 noon on Sunday. Participants must sign a waiver and wear a kilt to compete in the Clan Challenge.  Please indicate the Clan you will be representing. The challenge is open to novices and people who not regularly competing in other games.
There will also be a Highland Athletics clinic Sunday morning at 8:00am for anyone who has an interest in the proper techniques to throw or wants to learn more about the competition.

For more information, or to inquire about competing, please contact the Athletic Committee

 

 

Note: Hammer Throw is held on the Softball field past the Police Station

 

 

Scottish Athletics:

Caber Toss

This event is a highlight of the Scottish Highland Games. The caber toss is a traditional Scottish athletic event where competitors throw a large, tapered log called a caber, typically around 17 feet long and weighing over 80 kilograms. The goal is to flip the caber so that it lands with its small end pointing away from the tosser, demonstrating skill in balance and strength.

Event Description - The caber toss involves throwing a long wooden pole, or caber, which is about 5 meters in length.

Weight and Size - The caber usually weighs over 80 kilograms, requiring significant strength and technique.

Technique - Competitors must balance the caber vertically before tossing it, aiming for a perfect flip.

Cultural Significance - The caber toss is a symbol of Scottish heritage and is a key event at Highland Games.

Sheaf Toss

The sheaf toss has a rich history and specific rules. The sheaf toss originated as a competitive event at country fairs in Scotland.

Weight - Competitors typically throw a 16-pound (7 kg) burlap sack filled with straw.

Technique - Each participant has three attempts to clear the bar, which is set at progressively higher levels.

Cultural Significance - It is a staple event in the Highland Games, showcasing traditional Scottish strength sports

Scottish Hammer Throw

The Scottish hammer throw is a traditional athletic event from the Highland Games, where competitors throw a heavy weight attached to a long handle as far as possible from a fixed position. The event uses a wooden handle with a spherical weight, differing from modern hammer throw techniques that utilize a wire and ball setup.

Weight - The hammer typically weighs 22 lb for men and 16 lb for women.

Technique - Competitors throw the hammer from a stationary position without a run-up.

Historical Roots - It is derived from ancient Scottish Highland games, showcasing traditional athletic skills.

Equipment - The hammer consists of a solid wooden handle with a spherical weight at one end.

Scottish Stones of Strength

The Scottish stones of strength are heavy natural stones traditionally used in Scotland for strength training and competition. These stones, often associated with Scottish heritage, challenge lifters to demonstrate their physical prowess and have historical significance in Scottish culture.

Historical Significance - Many stones, like the Dinnie Stones, are linked to famous strongmen and have been used for over a century.

Types of Stones - Various lifting stones exist across Scotland, each with unique weights and challenges.

Cultural Events - Lifting competitions featuring these stones are popular at Scottish festivals, celebrating traditional strength.

Modern Usage - Today, these stones are still used in strength training and competitions, connecting modern athletes to their heritage.

Scottish Weight Throw

The Scottish weight throw, also known as weight for distance, is a traditional strength sport where competitors throw a heavy weight attached to a handle as far as possible. This event is a key feature of the Scottish Highland Games and has roots in ancient Scottish athletic competitions.

Event Description - The weight throw involves tossing a heavy weight, typically 16 or 22 lbs, attached to a handle for maximum distance.

Technique - Athletes throw the weight while facing away from the throwing direction, using a spinning technique to gain momentum.

Historical Significance - This event has origins in ancient Scottish games, showcasing strength and skill.

Competition Format - Competitors usually have multiple attempts to achieve their best throw, with the longest distance recorded as the winning throw.