A 150-year-old Deeside event is joining the digital revolution and opening online entries for the first time.
As Aboyne Highland Games prepares to mark its milestone anniversary next month, organisers have moved their competitor registration process on to the internet.
Deadlines are approaching for those wishing to compete in the highland dancing, piping and fiddle competitions, light and heavy athletics events, and the hill race, and teams in the tug o’ war contest – Monday, July 31 is the final cut-off date.
However, advance registration for the children’s races is not required and entries for these events will be accepted on games day in the normal manner.
Participants at this year’s Aboyne Highland Games will receive a special pin badge to mark their involvement in the event as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.
Games administrators have also announced the field for the popular Fungle Hill Race is being limited to only 150 places.
This year, the 6.8-mile race, which follows part of the historic Fungle Road and circles the base of Craigendinnie hill, will have both men’s and women’s sections with £100 prizes for the first male and female runners to complete the route.
After a near 40-year absence, pole-vaulting will return to this year’s programme. The sport featured in the first Aboyne Highland Games in 1867 and is being included in 2017 with a nod to those inaugural games.
Alistair Grant, chairman of Aboyne Highland Games, said: “This year’s games are shaping up to be a great day with our 150th anniversary being marked in many ways.
“Aboyne Games has always kept pace with the times and our decision to move competitor registration online is reflective of that.
“The change is designed to remove some of the administration that normally takes place on games day. Competitors will still need to sign in the normal manner but, by pre-registering, we’re aiming to remove unnecessary waits and hassle, making their day at Aboyne more enjoyable.”
Those looking to compete at this year’s Aboyne Highland Games can register at www.aboynegames.com
