Salmon farmer takes a hands-on approach to helping Cowal Gathering

Salmon farmer Bakkafrost Scotland has contributed money and muscle to one of the largest Highland games in the world, the Cowal Gathering, which takes place today, tomorrow, and Saturday.

A team from Bakkafrost helped prepare the site at Dunoon Stadium, and the salmon farmer is the event’s headline sponsor for the twelfth successive year.

The Gathering, which hosts the Cowal International Championship heavy athletics programme, piping competitions, and the World Highland Dancing Championships, is expected to attract around 20,000 competitors and visitors over the three days.

Events in the heavy athletics programme include caber tossing and hammer throwing, as well as shot putt using the 34 lb (15.4 kg) Cowal Stone.

Salmon prizes

As part of their prize, winners in the heavy events will be presented with Bakkafrost Scotland’s Native Hebridean salmon.

“The Cowal Games is a key event in the calendar for locals and international dancers, athletes and pipers alike,” said David Morrison, general manager of processing at Bakkafrost Scotland.

“We’re proud to be sponsoring the games for our twelfth year and it’s great to see our team pitching in to help with the setup.

“The games are a great celebration of culture and community on the doorstep of where many of our local team members live and work, and we sponsor the event because we want to help that continue to thrive.”

Cowal Gathering chairman David Mitchell said: “We are delighted to welcome Bakkafrost Scotland back as our headline sponsor for another year.

“Their longstanding support has played a vital role in the success of the Cowal Gathering, helping us attract thousands of competitors and spectators to Dunoon.”