I went to the Lochcarron Highland Games and I ran in the 100 metres boys and the 600 metres boys. First was the 100 metres, ready steady GO, we where off it was a short race and I won it. I got a slip and I had to go to a tent and collect a Gold Medal and £7. Next was the 600, we got called up at 1:30 and got ready to go, we lined up on the start line for 3 laps around the 200 metre track. There was only 1 other person in my race. 3,2,1 Go, me and the other boy where neck and neck for the whole race until the end. In the last 30 meters I sprinted and just won the boys 600 metres. I got a token and, the prize was another medal and £7.
Andrew Nash, Age 11
We had booked a week’s holiday at a cottage on the Attadale Estate, and as luck would have it the Lochcarron Highland Games were on the Saturday, almost in our back garden. As Highland Games go, Lochcarron is relatively young, 2015 being the 37th year. The Macpherson family, who own Attadale Estate, host the events in their grounds. Entry to the games includes free entry to the spectacular Attadale Gardens – well worth a visit if in the area.
The Friday night was a stormy one with gale force winds and heavy rain, which didn’t seem to let up on the Saturday. The Games, however, still went ahead, although the field was a quagmire at the end of the day.
The games are small and friendly, and include the usual heavy events, track events, highland dancing, pipe band and an assortment of stalls plus the food tent and beer tent (standing room only).
The Hill Race was limited to 60 on safety grounds – and was split into Open, Veteran, Ladies and Juniors with cash prizes for each category, although we all started at the same time. There were a few club vests from Westies, Highland Runners and Skye/Lochalsh plus a half naked, bare footed competitor from The Shire.
The start was fast and furious on the grass running track, and I soon ended up mid field, however once we were on the track section I found myself in third place. The hill climb was sodden and heavy going and the descent slippery. I was caught at the foot of the hill, but soon regained my place on the track back to the field with huge applause from the waiting crowd. Third overall and second in my veteran category.
A fun day out.
Results here: http://www.lochcarrongames.org.uk/2015-hill-race/
Graham Nash