The Stirling Highland Games, a revered celebration of Scottish tradition and athleticism, achieved new milestones this year, coinciding with Stirling’s 900th anniversary as a Royal Burgh. The International Gathering attracted thousands of spectators and participants from around the globe, reinforcing its status as a premier cultural event in Scotland.
Historic Records and Prestigious Awards
This year’s event was notable for its groundbreaking achievements and accolades. Stirling Highland Games stands out as one of only two highland games to offer competitive opportunities for para-athletes. The Adaptive Heavyweights competition, sponsored by Anatomical Concepts, saw the Wounded Highlanders, a group of competitive veterans, shatter two world records.
Mark Tonner, a familiar face at Stirling, set a new world record in the para-standing upper limb loss, weight for distance category. Tonner surpassed the previous record with his first throw, and then improved upon it twice more, concluding with a final throw of 44’ 1.5”. Similarly, Maria Theresa Miles achieved a new world record in the para-standing neuro muscular category, with an impressive throw of 28’ 6”. These achievements highlight the remarkable skills and resilience of the Wounded Highlanders, showcasing their dedication and strength.
Prestigious ERS Gold Award
Alongside the impressive record-breaking achievements, Matt McGrandles, President of the Stirling Highland Games, was thrilled to receive a significant update from Roy McLellan, Regional Employer Engagement Director at HRFCA. The games were awarded the Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award. McGrandles expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It was an amazing week for the committee. We had a successful event with record-breaking performances and the ERS Gold Award. A huge thanks to our funders, volunteers, support organisations, and athletes for their contributions.”
Stirling Highland Games is now the first and only highland games in the UK to achieve the ERS Gold standard. This recognition sets a new benchmark for similar events and underscores the significance of the Employer Recognition Scheme in supporting the Armed Forces community.
Celebrating Scottish Heritage
Stirling Provost Elaine Watterson commended the event, saying, ‘It was a pleasure to be at the Stirling Highland Games and witness its lively and engaging atmosphere. As Stirling celebrates its 900th anniversary, the Games showcased our city to an international audience, with visitors from across the globe. This award from the UK Government is a well-deserved recognition of the Stirling Highland Games’ commitment to supporting our Armed Forces community.”
For the past decade, Stirling Highland Games has been a cornerstone of Scotland’s heritage, featuring traditional athletic events, music, dance, and more. This year’s programme included thrilling competitions such as the iconic caber toss, track and field events, highland dancing by Stirling Gaelic Choir and Sticks n Kicks, heritage tours, and a marketplace with 50 producers and traders.
Achievements
The success of this year’s Games is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone involved, from athletes and performers to Ceangail, the organisers, and volunteers. The ERS Gold Award and the record-breaking achievements of the Wounded Highlanders have set a new standard for the Stirling Highland Games, ensuring it remains a highlight of Scotland’s cultural calendar.
As Stirling Highland Games wraps up another remarkable year, it continues to captivate and inspire. The event serves as a powerful reminder of Scotland’s rich traditions and the values of community, resilience, and sustainability. Opportunities for new funders are available to help Ceangail maintain its mission of providing vocational training for young people.
