BAKKAFROST SCOTLAND HELPS WOMEN MAKE HISTORY AT LOCHCARRON HIGHLAND GAMES

Bakkafrost Scotland helps women make history at Lochcarron Highland Games. Women will compete in the heavy events at Lochcarron Highland Games for the first time next weekend, after a leading salmon producer provided sponsorship to help launch the competition.

Bakkafrost Scotland is the headline sponsor of the games and has supported the men’s heavy events for several years. This year, its backing has helped enable the introduction of women’s heavy events, including hammer throw and shot putt. The expanded competition marks a milestone for the games, which are now in their 46th year and a key event in the local calendar, taking place on Saturday July 18. They attract competitors and visitors from across Scotland and beyond to Attadale Estate in Wester Ross.

The women’s heavy events competition was created following a skills demonstration by Jackie Sears, Angie Grant, and Claire Wallace at last year’s games. Women’s heavy events have surged in popularity in recent years, with the Glenurquhart Highland Gathering and Games in Drumnadrochit, on the shores of Loch Ness, featuring what organisers said was Scotland’s first world female heavy events championship last summer.

Joanna Macpherson, Chair of Lochcarron Highland Games Association, said:

“We’re delighted to be able to offer women’s heavy events at this year’s games, thanks to Bakkafrost Scotland. The skills demonstration last year showed how talented – and strong – the ladies are. Bakkafrost Scotland is our lead sponsor and is critical to the ongoing success and viability of our games.”

Anyone inspired by the feats of strength on display by both men and women at this year’s games can take part in the slightly less traditional event of the Haggis Hurl.

As well as the women’s and men’s heavy events, the games will include Highland dancing displays by the Skye Highland Dancers, pipe band performances from the Isle of Skye Pipe Band, athletics competitions, a hill race and a tug of war. Food and craft stalls will offer local produce, and there is also a free family fun area with crafts, games, face painting and races for younger participants. All the money raised at the games goes to support local community groups.

Ian Laister, managing director of Bakkafrost Scotland, said:

“We’re very pleased to increase our sponsorship of Lochcarron Highland Games to enable the creation of the ladies’ heavy events. It’s fantastic to see the competition continue to evolve while celebrating the traditions that make Highland games so popular. As a local employer across the west coast of Scotland, our partnership with the games reflects Bakkafrost Scotland’s commitment to supporting the communities where our employees live, work and thrive.”

Image: Bakkafrost Scotland