The Highland Games are contests which test strength, endurance, stamina, accuracy, and agility. Shown below are photographs of some of the games at the 60th Annual Spokane Highland Games.
Putting the Stone
In this event, one hand is used to throw a stone: 17 pounds for men and 8 pounds for women. A 7’6” run-up is allowed.
Weight for Distance
In this event, the weight is attached to a short length of chain and must be thrown with one hand. A 9’ run-up is allowed. Men throw weights of 28 and 56 pounds, while women throw weights of 12 and 28 pounds.
Hammer Throw
In this event, a spherical hammerhead is attached to handle which must be less than 50” in length. In throwing the hammer, the feet must remain in a fixed position. The hammerhead used by men weights 16 pounds and the one used by women weights 10 pounds. In the event, a heavy chain mesh is used to protect by-standers from hammers released at the wrong time.
Weight for Height
In this event, a weight must be thrown over a horizontal bar using only one hand. A 56 pound weight is used for men and a 28 pound weight for women.
Pitchfork Toss
In this event, a pitchfork is used to toss a straw-filled bag over a high horizontal bar.