Mey Games a must this Saturday

Mey Highland Games gets underway on Saturday (August 3) and athletes from around the world are preparing to smash more records.

In 2018 the games became the first in Scotland to introduce an adaptive element, when Prince Charles, Chieftain of the Games, invited para athletes from Help for Heroes to take part. The forces charity team wowed the crowds – even breaking a world record – and were blown away by the special atmosphere and location of the games.

Competitions that will be contested at the John O’Groats showground include throwing and lifting events such as the shot put, tug-o-war, caber toss and hammer throw, as well as running and cycling.

The 40-strong Help for Heroes team includes Arbroath-born Nick Steele, who toured alongside the army as a civilian presenter for British Forces radio. He was caught up in an ambush and 13 years ago was diagnosed with PTSD. Help for Heroes offered him support and he credits the charity with saving his life.

Nick said about getting involved in the games: “It’s something I’ve often thought about but never knew how to get involved. It’ll be a fine moment donning the Help for Heroes kilt.”

Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.