Highland Games go virtual to keep events going during coronavirus crisis
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
The organisers of many Highland Games events across Scotland are looking at different ways of sharing the experience this year.
"The calendar of Highland Games this year may now be empty, but that doesn’t mean we’re sitting back’, said Ian Grieve, secretary of the Scottish Highland Games Association (SHGA).
"We have a few surprises already and more on the way."
All of the association's 60-plus member games are now confirmed as cancelled.
As with many other events the time and cost of planning and mounting games, plus uncertainty around when large gatherings will be allowed again, means they are simply not viable this year.
However, the SHGA insists the games are resilient and innovative.
Mr Grieve said: "Strathmore has shown online how to make a fun caber for kids, Aboyne has an online solo piping competition, Ballater will be raising the standard and inviting supporters to send in clips, Stirling is lining up some virtual activities which people can participate in, and we have others looking to do more with online resources to deliver something that will interest, excite and entertain.
"Check out the SHGA Facebook pages and website for the latest information."
Along with games organisers many of the athletes, dancers and pipers who would normally compete at the events are not resting on their laurels either.
"There’s a great podcast, Life Behind the Trig, which has athletes in heavyweight disciplines sharing experiences, and our partner governing bodies for piping and dancing are also rising to the challenge’ said Mr Grieve.
And he added: "We’re already planning for next year, to come back stronger, better: welcoming back all our supporters and friends, hopefully some new ones too, people who haven’t attended a Highland Games before.
"I would urge you to think about helping your local games, come and make a difference – see the SHGA website for contact details."
