Watch all the action from the World Highland Dancing Finals
Crowds flock to finale of 2023 Cowal Gathering
Billed as one of Scotland’s best days out the finale of the 2023 Cowal Gathering lived up to its reputation.
Thousands of people from across the world gathered in Dunoon today for the final day of the world’s most spectacular Highland Gathering with competitors, entertainers and spectators joining forces to make sure super Saturday was a day to remember.
Crowds watched as over a thousand competitors fought to secure some Cowal silverware. Dancers, pipers, heavy athletes and wrestlers were joined by entertainers including cyclists, axe throwers and musicians to ensure the Gathering’s crowds were wowed from early morning until the end of the day.
The standard of competition was world class, with every athlete and competitor giving their all to leave the Stadium as a Cowal Gathering winner.
Overseeing the action was the Gathering’s Chieftain, former Sky chairman and Cowal resident Nick Ferguson CBE.
One of the highlights of the Gathering’s final day was, as always, the Cowal Pipe Band Championship.
Section and grade winners in the Cowal Pipe Band champions were:
Novice Juvenile B – Renfrewshire Schools
Novice Juvenile A – Kilbarchan Pipe Band
Grade 3 – Coalburn IOR
Grade 3 MSR – Coalburn IOR
Grade 2 – Coalburn IOR
The champion drum major was Campbell Gillies of Rothesay and District Pipe Band.
Today also saw the Argyllshire Highland Dancing competitions (for dancers who live in Argyll and Bute), with top honours in the 7 and under 12 years Premier category going to Naomi Sim from Helensburgh and the 12 and 13 years Intermediate category awarded to Taylor McMillan from Campbeltown.
Top prize in the 14 and 15 years Premier category went to Grace McGrath from Helensburgh. Linzi Cameron from Campbeltown triumphed in the 16 years and over class.
Then came the biggest Highland Dancing competition in the world – the World Championship finals - with dancers from Australia, Canada and the USA pitting their skills against the best the UK has to offer.
In the end, it was Eilidh Gammons from Helensburgh who emerged victorious in the World Juvenile finals, followed by Maria Monk of Bearsden and Alice Gill of Melbourne.
The trophy for best Scottish Juvenile Dancer went to Eilidh Gammons and the best Overseas Juvenile Dancer was Alice Gill from Melbourne.
In the World Junior championship, Olivia Burke of Nova Scotia held off the challenge of Lily Kelman from Inverness and Lauren Abrahart of Alberta.
The best Scottish Junior Dancer was Lily Kelman of Inverness, and the trophy for the best Overseas Junior Dancer went to Oliva Burke.
The Adult World champion was Rebecca Thow from Belhelvie, followed by Michelle Gordon from Huntly, with Cameron Walker from Denny in third.
Fiona Tolley from Ontario is taking home the Mary McHarg Quaich for best Overseas Adult Dancer. The cup for best Scottish Adult Dancer went to Rebecca Thow.
Throughout the afternoon, some of the world’s hottest traditional music bands entertained the crowds in the now-famous Cowal Live Music Tent sponsored this year by Cove UK.
Leading the pack was one of Cowal Gathering’s favourite bands, Trail West who were joined by two of the hottest names on the traditional music scene – Torridon and Cala. Also on the line-up were Travee, fresh from playing at the Gig at the Gathering last night, where they made a legion of new fans.
While the bands were playing in their marquee behind the stadium, the heavy athletes and wrestlers battled it out for top honours in the stadium itself.
In the International Heavy Athletics Team competition, Team Scotland were victorious with Team Germany coming runners up.
In the overall individual heavy athletics, Craig Winslow from Scotland triumphed in the men’s competition, with Daniel Carlin from Scotland in second and Martin Kuhne from Germany third.
In the women’s event, Mhairi Porterfield from Scotland beat off the challenge of Christina Scheffaur from Austria (2nd) and Rachel Hunter from Scotland (3rd).
Martin Kuhne and Mhairi Porterfield were crowned men’s and women’s caber toss champions respectively.
Of course the Gathering’s reputation for being one of Scotland’s best family-friendly events was cemented with the selection of entertainment for all ages.
One of the most popular draws was the return of the Clan Stunt Team who wowed the crowds with their gravity defying two wheeled flips and jumps.
Among the other biggest attractions were the Braveheart Axe Throwing Team, Mountain Biking track, the Cowal Ceilidh Tent with the Inverhooley Ceilidh Band and legendary children’s favourite, Artie’s Singing Kettle featuring veteran entertainer Artie Trezise, who has entertained generations of children with his songs and stories.
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board Fraser McCowan said this year’s event will go down as the best in recent times and thanked the people of Dunoon and Cowal for their continued support, as well as the Gathering’s sponsors.
‘On behalf of the Board of Cowal Gathering, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this year’s event. Your hard work over, not only the last months, but years has helped ensure Cowal Gathering continue to grow and develop to be an event fit for the 21st century.
‘A huge thank you must also go to the thousands of people who have come out to support the Gathering over the last three days. We’ve welcomed spectators not just from Argyll and Scotland, but from all corners of the UK and, of course our international visitors who have travelled many thousands of miles, just to be with us.
‘As well as our visitors here in the Stadium I’d like to also thank the thousands of people who joined us online through our livestream. We hope you enjoyed the competitions from wherever part of the world you were watching from.
‘To our wonderful competitors, Cowal Gathering could not be what it is without you. This year’s levels of performance have been simply breathtaking.
While the events in the Stadium are over for another year, there is still the Western Ferries’ fireworks to look forward to. These mark the official end of this year’s event and will take place from the Coal Pier at 9.00pm this evening’
‘Thank you to everyone involved once again, I look forward to welcoming you back to the 2024 Cowal Gathering.”
Ian Laister, Managing Director at Bakkafrost Scotland, headline sponsor of the event said:
“True to form, this special community event has brought fun and a fair bit of competition to Argyll! It has been our pleasure to support the Cowal Gathering team and we would like to extend congratulations to all of this year’s entrants and of course winners.
“Thank you to the organisers who put so much effort into planning a successful event not only for the local community to enjoy, but for visitors to experience the best of what Scottish tradition has to offer.”
Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “I am delighted that EventScotland supported Cowal Highland Gathering through its National Funding Programme in 2023. It has been fantastic to see Dunoon offer such a warm welcome to visitors, providing the perfect stage for competitors, participants and audiences alike.”
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Programme.
A full list of the results of all today’s action will be posted on the website (www.cowalgathering.com) as soon as possible.
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Programme.
Cowal Highland Gathering crowds enjoy spectacular day
It’s billed as the world’s most spectacular Highland Gathering and today thousands of spectators were treated to another day of fantastic competition on day two of Cowal Gathering.
With Highland Dancing, piping and heavy athletics on the menu, today was feast of world class competition.
And the day isn’t over yet as 1,200 people are getting ready to head back to the show ground for the Gig at the Gathering which starts at 7.00pm.
From the first competitions of the morning, there was never a dull moment as hundreds of dancers, athletes and pipers did battle to win coveted Cowal honours.
Those who arrived early were spoiled for choice, with the Scottish Highland Dancing Championships and junior solo piping competitions all taking place before lunch.
The Scottish Championships are one of three major dancing competitions being held during the Gathering. The others are the Argyllshire Championship and the World Championship, which both take place on Saturday.
The Local Juvenile Solo Piping competition took place in the morning, as did the Burgh Cup Competition for solo piping.
Among the winners in the Scottish National Championships, the main results were:
Murron Putka from Leven in the 14 years section.
Eilidh Gammons from Helensburgh in the 15 years section.
Amelia Leishman from Edinburgh in the 16 years section.
In the junior solo piping section, Camron Macphail from Kilmartin picked up the Burgh Cup. Grant Gibson from Dunoon was second, picking up The Inglis Trophy and Scott Wilson from Argyll took third, picking up The Campbell Birnie Trophy. The Best Dressed Playing Piper: Juvenile was Arran Green from Stirling.
At lunch time, the popular Classic Car Display in the Alexandra Parade car park in the town proved a hit with locals and visitors alike.
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board Fraser McCowan said he was very happy with the way the event is progressing.
‘We’ve had a marvellous two days. As always, the atmosphere has been brilliant, and the crowds have been wowed by some incredible competition,’ he said.
‘And while our traditional events may be over for the day, we’re getting ready for the next fixture, the Gig at the Gathering later this evening.
‘The Gig is a fantastic way to kick off your Cowal Gathering weekend. Those lucky enough to have got a ticket can look forward to an excellent evening of music headlined by Beinn Lee. Those people who weren’t so fortunate can look forward to tomorrow’s Live Music Tent, sponsored by Cove UK when we welcome back one of this evening’s bands, Rhuvaal together with Cala Torridon and headliners Trail West.
‘If you haven’t already bought your ticket, I would urge you to come to the Stadium tomorrow for a fantastic day out with something for the whole family.’
Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s Director of Events, said: “Congratulations to the winners so far in such a competitive field and well done to all who have taken part. Cowal Highland Gathering is a fantastic showcase for our country’s traditions and talent and Dunoon provides the perfect stage for this uniquely Scottish event.”
A full list of the results of all today’s action will be posted on the Gathering website as soon as possible.
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Programme.
This year’s Cowal Gathering runs from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 August.
For information or to book tickets for the rest of the event, please visit the website or contact the event office by emailing info@cowalgathering.com or phoning 01369 703206.
Dunoon welcomes crowds for day one of Cowal Gathering 2023
Dunoon welcomed thousands of people today as the world’s most spectacular Highland Games finally kicked off.
Visitors from the four corners of the globe have been pouring into the town and surrounding area over the last few days in the run-up to what is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the Scottish calendar.
The action began early when the Scottish National Highland Dancing Championships kicked off at 08.30am.
Today’s competitions – which included the qualifiers for Saturday’s World Highland Dancing Championships - saw 436dancers in 10 categories battle it out for some coveted Cowal silverware.
Among the winners were: Aisla Gocan-Wright from Ontario, Canada who won the premier category for dancers aged 11 years, picking up the Elkington Challenge Trophy and this year there was a three way tie between Sophie Strachan from Forfar, Alexa Bianconcini from Glenrothes and Eilidh Gammons from Helensburgh who all ended the day on the same points to win the May Falconer Memorial Trophy for the best Scottish Dancer (resident) in Events 8 to 15.
It wasn’t all about dancing today, because the entertainment kept going into the evening with the ever-popular 5K Cowal Run taking place from the Crazy Golf course at West Bay at 7.15pm.
More than 90 athletes signed up to take part and were cheered on by spectators lining the route.
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board Fraser McCowan said he was delighted by how the event’s first day had gone.
‘The eyes of the Highland dancing world are once again on Dunoon,’ he said.
‘Highland dancing fans from all corners of the globe are watching the action not only in the Stadium, but also online as the Gathering broadcasts all the dancing competitions by live stream.
‘The feedback from our online audience is already very positive and the excitement is just going to be heightened over the next couple of days as we get nearer to crowing our new world champions.’
‘Even a bit of wet weather failed to dampen the spirits of competitors and spectators, most of whom come prepared for rain at some stage of the proceedings!,’ he added.
‘We’ve got a packed schedule for tomorrow and Saturday with something for everyone to enjoy, from Highland Dancing, pipe bands, solo piping, heavy athletics and ceilidh music to stunt bikes, axe throwing, kids’ entertainment or any of the other many attractions the Gathering now boasts.
‘I’m delighted with how the first day has gone, and we very much look forward to welcoming everyone back again tomorrow for another day of spectacular entertainment.”
Ian Laister, Managing Director at Bakkafrost Scotland, said:
“We’re back again in full swing, and as the headline sponsor of the Cowal Gathering, we are honoured to take part and provide our support to such a significant event for both the local community and visitors who travel to attend an event that celebrates Scottish culture and tradition.
“Best of luck to everyone who is taking part and thank you to everyone who came and made the event so much fun.”
A full list of the results of all today’s action will be posted on the Gathering website – www.cowalgathering.com - as soon as possible.
Countdown to Cowal Gathering 2023 – one week to go!
With just days to go until the 2023 Cowal Gathering, organisers are looking forward to welcoming visitors from around the globe back to Dunoon to take part in world-class competitions.
Cowal Gathering’s invitation to ‘See All of Scotland in One Weekend’, may be ambitious, but with the stellar line-up of competitions and entertainment planned, it’s going to be difficult to argue with.
And as with every year, every spectator who comes through the gates can choose to see or take part in as many of the attractions as they want – all included in their entry ticket.
Cowal Gathering has something for every member of the family in the Top Field entertainment area. From axe throwing and stunt bikes through to stories from Artie’s Singing Kettle, giant games, crazy golf, the come-and-try mountain bike track, clowns and magic tricks, you would be hard pressed to not find something to keep you entertained.
But that’s not all on offer. Also included in the admission ticket is entry to the famous Cowal Live Music Tent featuring the world class traditional Scottish music that Cowal Gathering is famous for. And once again the Cowal Live Music Tent is set to rock the stadium with a fantastic line-up of talent headed up by Cowal favourites Trail West.
Trail West will be supported by Cowal Gathering first timers, Torridon and Cala. They’re joined by Travee who are returning to the Cowal Music Tent fresh from playing the Friday night Gig at the Gathering.
It’s difficult to attend Cowal Gathering’s Top Field and not dance so, Cowal Gathering regulars the Inverhooley Ceilidh Band return to the Ceilidh Tent to encourage visitors to ‘take their partners’ for a Strip the Willow or Dashing White Sergeant, in between wandering round all the other attractions.
Of course, all this entertainment is in addition to the traditional events which are the cornerstone of Cowal Gathering – from piping and highland dancing to heavy athletics and wrestling.
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board Fraser McCowan said he is looking forward to welcoming the crowds back saying: ‘Cowal Gathering is such a special event and we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to make sure everyone has a good time, whether they’re four or 94.
‘We’ve put together a package of entertainment to appeal to all age groups. We’re welcoming back some old favourites as well as some new acts.
‘We’re just one week away until we throw open the gates and welcome guests from around the world back to enjoy one of Scotland’s best family-friendly days out.
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Funding Programme.
This year’s Cowal Highland Gathering runs from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 August.
Teams prepare to compete for international glory
Music to your ears - Cowal Gathering announces new Live Music tent sponsor
Cowal Gathering is delighted to announce Cove UK, the new owners of Argyll Holidays, as the new sponsor of the Saturday Cowal Live Music Tent.
Cove UK has a reputation for family-friendly holidays, so partnering with Cowal Gathering, which offers one of Scotland’s best family-friendly events promises an unforgettable day out.
One of the biggest attractions on Cowal Gathering Saturday, the Cowal Live Music Tent this year will be headlined by world-famous ceilidh band Trail West, ably supported by folk rock Highlanders Torridon, trad rockers Cala and fresh from the Friday night Gig at the Gathering, Travee.
Fraser McCowan announced the new agreement on behalf of the Cowal Gathering board saying: ‘We’re delighted to welcome Cove UK as the new face of the Cowal Live Music Tent and we’re very excited to have their support for one of this year’s showcase events.
‘We always set the bar pretty high for the Cowal Live Music Tent, but I’m confident that our reputation for providing the very best in traditional music on Cowal Saturday will be even stronger once this year’s bands rock the tent,’ he added.
‘All four of these acts are trailblazers for contemporary Highland ceilidh music and the Gathering provides a unique opportunity to enjoy them up close – in one place, on one day. It’s a chance not to be missed.’
And that’s not all, Cove UK is also offering one lucky family the chance to win a break over Cowal Gathering in their award-winning Hunter’s Quay Holiday Village, which is fresh from a multi-million-pound redevelopment. Head over to their booth to enter to win and tour a luxury caravan, which will be onsite during the games. Sandy the Seal and Friends will also be making an appearance. The holiday winner will be drawn on Monday 28 August, following the event.
Gordon Walker, Director of Operations – Cove UK said: ‘The Cowal Gathering celebrates the prowess, strength, and rich cultural heritage of the Scottish people. Cove UK & Argyll Holidays support and cheer for the athletes as they embody the spirit of determination and tradition. In their pursuit of greatness, they honour not just themselves, but also the centuries-old legacy of the Highland Games. We are delighted to support the Cowal Gathering, a testament to the indomitable spirit of our beloved Scotland!
This year’s Cowal Highland Gathering runs from Thursday 24 – Saturday 26 August.
For information or to book tickets, please visit the Gathering’s website at www.cowalgathering.com or contact the event office by emailing info@cowalgathering.com or phoning 01369 703206.
2023 Cowal Gathering – Let us entertain you!
The countdown is on to what is always one of the most eagerly anticipated weekends on the Scottish Highland Games calendar.
But of course, if you’ve already experienced Cowal Gathering, you will know the event is so much more than ‘just’ a Highland Games.
While the competitors do battle in the Stadium, on the Top Field, it’s family-friendly fun all the way, with some of Scotland’s best entertainers to keep everyone happy.
And, as every other year, every spectator can enjoy every attraction included in the price of their entry ticket.
Despite juggling such a wide range of additional draws for people of all ages, Gathering organisers have made sure that there will be ample opportunity for ticket holders to schedule their day so as to take in everything there is to do and see.
So, there will be no need to choose between The Clan – Scotland’s Stunt Bike Team and Braveheart Axe Throwing, Artie’s Singing Kettle, the Mountain Bike Track, Arts and Craft Tent, Punch and Judy Shows, Flavours and Favours Tent, Giant Games, Crazy Golf… and the list goes on.
But of course, that’s only half of what’s included in the Top Field entertainment. The other half is the legendary Cowal Live Music Tent for which the Gathering is renowned, and this year introduces new bands to the Cowal stage as well as welcoming back some old friends.
The Cowal Live Music Tent is world-famous and always one of the Gathering’s most popular attractions. This year’s line-up is headed by Cowal Gathering favourites Trail West, who guarantee a hoolie.
They will be supported by three other fantastic acts – Travee will be back in the tent, fresh from the Friday night Gig at the Gathering, up and coming trad band Cala join us before we welcome Torridon, who are stepping onto the Cowal stage for the first time but who are regulars on the Scottish and European festival scenes.
The Ceilidh Dance Tent is also making its return to the Top Field where the Inverhooley Ceilidh Band will keep the party atmosphere going with Scottish Highland dance music. With space for people to enjoy a quick Dashing White Sergeant or Strip the Willow this is a must-visit attraction.
All this entertainment is in addition to the traditional Highland games events which remain the cornerstone of Cowal Gathering – from highland dancing and piping to heavy athletics and wrestling.
And remember all this is on offer to anyone with an entry ticket, at no extra charge, which are on sale now at https://cowalgatheringtickets.com/p/entrytickets
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board, Fraser McCowan said: ‘We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to bring families a day packed full of fun and entertainment.
‘We’ve brought back some firm favourites as well as introducing some new elements which we hope will delight Gathering goers of all ages.
‘We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors and friends old and new, from around the world back to Cowal and showing them just why Cowal Gathering is seen as one of Scotland’s best family-friendly days out, whatever your age!’
This year’s Cowal Gathering runs from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 August.
For more information about the event or to buy tickets, please visit the Gathering’s website at www.cowalgathering.com or contact the event office by emailing info@cowalgathering.com or phoning 01369 703206.
Western Ferries’ to continue Cowal Gathering support
Once again Scotland’s premier family-friendly Highland Gathering will feature its traditional finale with the news that Western Ferries will continue in its role as one of the event’s main sponsors.
This support which is part of Western Ferries’ long-standing and wide-reaching local sponsorship programme, is good news for the legions of Gathering goers of all ages who gather on Dunoon’s Coal Pier on Cowal Gathering Saturday night to enjoy the spectacular display.
Western Ferries has sponsored the fireworks display for many years and the Gathering’s organisers welcomed today’s announcement.
Speaking on behalf of the Cowal Gathering Board Fraser McCowan said: ‘We are very grateful to Western Ferries for their continued sponsorship of Cowal Gathering.
‘Western Ferries are celebrating their 50th anniversary in 2023, and as well as being one of the area’s most respected businesses, they also support numerous local events, festivals and organisations throughout the area.
‘Of course, their support to Cowal Gathering goes well beyond sponsoring our firework finale. During the event, they lay on extra sailings between Hunter’s Quay and McInroy’s Point allowing competitors, spectators, exhibitors, and entertainers to get to and from the Gathering with minimal delay.
Western Ferries Managing Director Gordon Ross said, ‘This is a big year for Western Ferries as we celebrate our 50th birthday. And, of course, no party would be complete without the Cowal Gathering festivities at the end of August.
‘We have been delighted to be part of Cowal Gathering for a number of years and are once again looking forward to working alongside the Gathering team.
‘This is one of our favourite weekends in the calendar, giving us the opportunity to celebrate Highland culture, and showcase Dunoon and Cowal as a year-round tourism destination.
‘The Western Ferries’ fireworks finale is a fitting way to round off three days of world-class competition which is enjoyed by locals, visitors and competitors.’
This year’s Cowal Highland Gathering runs from Thursday 24 to Saturday 26 August.
Cowal Gathering 2022 signs off in style
As family days out go, this one was surely hard to beat.
Thousands of people from across the world gathered in Dunoon today for the spectacular climax of the Cowal Gathering.
Competitors and spectators alike joined forces to ensure the event’s finale was, as always, a day to remember for everyone involved.
From the hundreds of dancers and pipers to the heavy athletes, ceilidh bands, axe throwers, acrobats and many other entertainers on show, every participant contributed to what was a fantastic day’s entertainment.
The standard of competition was breathtaking, with many of the world’s top competitors giving their all in a bid go home with the silverware.
One of the highlights of the Gathering’s final day was, as always, the Cowal Pipe Band Championship.
Section and grade winners in the Cowal Pipe Band champions were:
The champion drum major was Becky Cox of Troon Blackrock.
Today also saw the Argyllshire Highland Dancing competitions (for dancers who live in Argyll and Bute), with top honours in the 7 and under 12 years Premier category going to Corrie McMillan from Campbeltown and the 12 and 13 years Premier category awarded to Grace McGrath from Helensburgh.
Top prize in the 14 and 15 years Premier category went to Solana McMurchy from Campbeltown. Catriona Gammons from Helensburgh triumphed in the 16 years and over class.
Then came the biggest Highland Dancing competition in the world – the World Championship finals - with dancers from Australia, Canada and the USA pitting their skills against the best the UK has to offer.
In the end, it was Lily Kelman from Inverness who emerged victorious in the World Juvenile finals, followed by Eilidh Gammons of Helensburgh and Morgan Terrace of Dumfries.
The trophy for best Scottish Juvenile Dancer went to Lily Kelman and the best Overseas Juvenile Dancer was Alice Gill from Victoria.
In the World Junior championship, Annalise Lam of British Colombia held off the challenge of Morven Johnston, West Australia and Olivia Burke of Nova Scotia.
The best Scottish Junior Dancer was Emma Smart of Aberdeen, and the trophy for the best Overseas Junior Dancer went to Annalise Lam.
The Adult World champion was Marielle Lesperance from Nova Scotia, followed by Michelle Gordon from Huntly, with Candice Walker from Leslie in third.
Marielle Lesperance is taking home the Mary McHarg Quaich for best Overseas Adult Dancer. The cup for best Scottish Adult Dancer went to Michelle Gordon.
Throughout the afternoon, some of the world’s hottest traditional music bands entertained the crowds in the now-famous live music tent.
Leading the pack was new to Cowal Gathering, Gnoss who were joined by two of the hottest names on the traditional music scene – up and coming bands Rhuvaal, fresh from playing at the Gig at the Gathering last night, and Eabhal, together with The American Rogues who also returned to the live music tent after making a legion of new fans at Friday night’s Gig at the Gathering.
While they were playing in their marquee behind the stadium, the heavy athletes and wrestlers battled it out for top honours in the stadium itself.
In the International Heavy Athletics Team competition, Team Scotland did it again – retaining the International Heavy Athletics Championship trophy they first won in 2019 with Team Germany coming runners up.
In the overall individual heavy athletics, Daniel Carlin from Scotland from triumphed in the men’s competition, with Craig Winslow from Scotland in second and Marius Linfoff from Germany third.
In the women’s event, Christina Scheffaur from Austria beat off the challenge of Lucy Marshall from Crick (2nd) and Sylvana Bomholt from Germany (3rd).
Daniel Carlin and Sylvanna Bomholt were crowned men’s and women’s caber toss champions respectively.
This year, there was a bigger and better selection of entertainment for all ages than ever before.
One of the most popular draws proved to be a new addition to the schedule – the exciting Vander Double Wheel of Death
Among the other biggest attractions were the Braveheart Axe Throwing Team, Mountain Biking track, Drakes of Hazard along with the perennial children’s favourite, Artie’s Singing Kettle featuring veteran entertainer Artie Trezise, who has entertained generations of children with his songs and stories.
Cowal Gathering chair Ronnie Cairns said the success of the weekend and the enthusiasm of everyone involved would ensure that this famous event will continue to go from strength to strength.
“Judging from the feedback we’ve been receiving over the last three days, the vast majority of people who have taken part this year – whether competing or spectating – are going home having had a brilliant time,” he said.
“We weren’t sure what to expect this year, for the first in-person Gathering since 2019, but I’m delighted to see how much people have missed the event and have welcomed it back. There are so many people working away behind the scenes to ensure that everything is as good as it can possibly be by the time the last weekend in August arrives, and I’d like to thank all our supporters, volunteers and sponsors for once again pulling it off.
“Our competitors have excelled themselves, as they do every year. Our spectators have marvelled at the skills on show, as they do every year. And the entertainments on offer in addition to the traditional Highland games elements have once again proved a major hit.
“I’d like to thank everyone for ensuring it’s been such a great event, and we
very much look forward to welcoming everyone back to Dunoon for the 2023 Gathering.”
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Programme.
A full list of the results of all today’s action will be posted on the website (www.cowalgathering.com) as soon as possible.
Cowal Highland Gathering is supported through EventScotland’s International Events Programme.
For information on Cowal Gathering please visit the website or contact the event office by emailing info@cowalgathering.com or phoning 01369 703206.
ENDS
Editor’s notes
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