Even an entire day of torrential downpours and gusty winds did not dampen the spirit of the Oban Games. Thankfully the tempestuous weather of the day before only served to make it more difficult to set up the stadium. Today it was a mostly cloudy day with periods of sun and rain. The Argyllshire Gathering, the forerunner to the Highland Games we know today, began in 1871 when several landowners and families of Argyll decided to get together annually. Now, more than 150 years later, the Games have been a highlight of the Argyllshire summer season. They take place at Mossfield Stadium in Oban.
The heavy events are what most of us think of when we think Highland Games. These competitions attract a strong, enthusiastic following at Oban Games and they are all about strength, stamina & agility as the Clan Chief looked to surround himself with the strongest clansmen. The unique heavy events are found only at Highland Gatherings with both Open and Local classes. Highland Dancing is an art that requires extraordinary skill, stamina and strength. Girls and boys begin learning these dances at a very young age – in fact there are several dance schools throughout the area. Dancers need to work every muscle in the body to perform intricate steps whilst in mid-air. I especially like the Gille Chaluim (Sword Dance) which dates from the time of King Malcolm Canmore (1058-1093) It is said that the king laid down his sword over that of his defeated opponent in the sign of the cross, and executed a dance of victory over them. The dance requires great skill, balance and agility.
The Argyllshire Piping Competition takes place over two days and attracts pipers from Scotland, the UK and around the world. A highlight of the Games is the opening march of the Gathering stewards which begins in town and ends in the Mossfield Stadium. It is true pomp and circumstance as some of the best solo pipers in the land play together. It is not to be missed. A real treat was the performance of the Oban High School Pipe Band. For a complete look at the Games click here https://www.obangames.com/ .
