30/09/2025
It is believed that Highland games originated in the Scottish Highlands after King Malcolm III held a contest to find the strongest men back in the 11th Century.
The games consisted of traditional Scottish strength sports such as the caber toss and tug-of-war, as well as music and dance competitions. The men were tested for strength and speed, the aim being to select men to serve as messengers and soldiers. Others were chosen as best musicians or dancers and these men were to be household entertainers.
In 1746, legislation was brought in that outlawed Highland customs such as playing bagpipes, wearing tartan and clan gatherings like the Highland games. The legislation was brought in to suppress the cultural expression that was associated with the games.
Almost four decades later in 1782 the legislation was changed and the efforts of influential figures like Sir Walter Scott and Queen Victoria helped revive and spread Highland traditions, paving the way for the modern Highland Games we know today.
To all the contestants that participated in the Bonnie Wingham Highland Games, well done, and to our games winners, a massive congratulations! You participated in activities with deep tradition and rich history that Scottish clans fought hard to keep alive.
A massive thank you to Peter Denton for helping run the games all day and to Body Strength Health and Fitness Gym for loaning games items such as weights.
