Abernethy Highland Games Association |  |
About the GamesOne of the longest established traditional Highland Games in Scotland, Abernethy Games were first held in 1880.Following a break between the two wars, they have been held every year on the present Games Field in the village since 1946.The events and competitions remain much the same from year to year, but every year is different as new competitors come on to the scene and new records are set. Uniquely, Highland Games combine tests of strength, skill and endurance, with the traditional Highland art forms of music and dance. Massed Pipes and Drums, usually the combined forces of 6 or 7 bands from the local area, add a sound and spectacle that makes for a very special experience and one that is rooted deeply in the culture of the Highlands. David Green, our Games Chieftain this year, is a man well versed in Highland culture having served for several years on the Highland Council, and as Convener from 1999 - 2003. His work with the Crofters Commission culminated in his appointment as Chairman in 2002. . The Abernethy Games are run by the community of Nethybridge, a village of 700 or so,set at the foot of the Cairngorms and at the edge of Abernethy Forest,one of the largest surviving remnants of the great Caledonian Forest- and the setting for the RSPB 10 mile Road Race. The Games are managed by the Abernethy Highland Games Association which is runentirely by volunteers living in the local community. Any surplus funds after meeting each year's costs are used solely for the improvement of the Games. The Games receive no subsidy and to continue every year depend on the takings from admissions and rentals on Games day, and on the support in kind of many local individuals and businesses. They are a true community enterprise Abernethy Games are a member of the North of Scotland Amateur Highland Games Association (NSAHGA), running under the rules and supervision of Scottish Athletics, which are slightly different from the many professional Highland Games run under the Scottish Games Association. Links to the other NSAHGA member gamesNewtonmore: 01540 673348 Nairn: nairnhighlandgames.co.uk Forres: forreshighlandgames.fsnet.co.uk Elgin: 01343 541856 Inverness: invernesshighlandgames.com Lochaber: 01397 772885 Glenurqhuart: 01456 450481 | Massed pipe bands throughout the day |
