The Highland Gathering is an essential part of Scottish culture. For centuries people who lived isolated in the hills would get together for a party. Competition was just part of the fun.
Gathering’s take place in the Highlands in August when the weather is good(ish) and there’s plenty of visitors to enjoy the spectacle. Today these events attract fast food stalls and fun fairs, but they still have a serious dimension.
The athleticism of competitors is impressive, and semi-professionals tour the different gatherings in search of prize money. Of course they always have to beat the local hot shots – and that isn’t always as easy as you might think.
This video shows the Highland Gathering at Dornoch, with the competitions we might expect – throwing heavy hammers, running, jumping, piping and dancing. It also shows a couple of events we wouldn’t expect – racing bicycles and the kiddies corner with throwing and tossing.
Later tonight there’ll be a dance – an event for teenagers of all ages. It’ll be noisy and great fun. Tomorrow there’ll be plenty of sore heads too.
Watch out for the hammer losing his head 
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