Well plaid, Vlad! Strongman breaks record at Bakkafrost-backed games

The 45th Lochcarron Highland Games attracted visitors from around the world on Saturday, with spectators flocking to see traditional events including tossing the caber, highland dancing performances and piping displays.

The event, sponsored by salmon farmer Bakkafrost Scotland for the seventh successive year, is organised with the help of dedicated teams of volunteers and attracts visitors from across the globe – with 90% of advance ticket sales coming from outside the UK.

The star of the show at the traditional men’s ‘heavies’ events was Vlad Tulacek, from the Czech Republic, who broke ground records in five different categories – and only narrowly missed out on setting a new world record in the Weight for Height event.

Strong women

Three female competitors were also in attendance at the Lochcarron Highland Games for the first time to demonstrate their own strength skills. Claire Wallace, Jackie Sears and Angie Grant-Omotosho are looking to develop the ladies’ ‘heavies’ events in the coming years.

 The opening ceremony featured a performance by the Gaelic Studies class at Lochcarron Primary School, with entertainment also provided by the Isle of Skye Pipe Band and Skye Highland Dancers. Philip Vokes, from Inverness, won the traditional hill race, leading a field of 79 runners.

Amazing support

Lochcarron Highland Games treasurer Lorna Lory said: “Everything we do is community-led and designed to promote this part of the Highlands. The community focus is very important to us.

“We are very grateful for the support of Bakkafrost Scotland as our main sponsor. They are critical to the ongoing success and viability of our Games.

“Their amazing support also sees them provide us with a large supply of fresh salmon on the day, which is used to feed our army of volunteers and visitors like the field judges, dancers and pipe band – a very important part of the day for many people!”

Vibrant culture

Ian Laister, managing director of Bakkafrost Scotland, said: “Events like the Lochcarron Highland Games represent the communities in which we live and work at their best.

“As a major employer along Scotland’s west coast, we are proud to support initiatives that elevate the region on a global stage while celebrating the richness of our local culture. Our commitment to responsible business includes championing projects that bring lasting value to our communities, recognising the vibrant culture and people who make it so special.”