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In pictures: Thousands celebrate 93rd anniversary of Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games

The "sunshine games" returned to the Aberdeenshire village on Saturday.

Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games 2023. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson
Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games 2023. Image: Kenny Elrick/DC Thomson

Thousands packed the green lawn in Oldmedrum today to celebrate the glorious return of the “sunshine games”.

Crowds line up around the arena at the village’s Pleasure Park as the Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games kicked off with the sound of pipes.

Lord Lieutenant Sandy Manson read a letter from King Charles to officially open the event, which praised the “local roots” of the games.

Celebrating its 93rd anniversary, the event lived up to its name with hundreds of families turning up to soak in the sun and watch the competitors go head to head.

Heavy athletes put their strength and resilience to the test after months of gruelling training, while Highland dancers in colourful outfits entertained the crowds.

The event also included kids races, high and long jump competitions, wrestling and hammer throwing.

Meanwhile, dozens of traders had the opportunity to “get their name out there”, offering arts and crafts and delicious treats for people of all tastes and likes.

Our photographer Kenny Elrick has captured some of the best moments of this year’s games.


Best pictures of Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games

The Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games kicked off with the sound of pipes.
The sound of bagpipes were heard as the games returned.
Bagpipers
Lord Lieutenant for Aberdeenshire Sandy Manson officially opening the games.
Leo and Hector enjoying the day out.
The boys together!
Kyle Randall during the Light Hammer throw.
Vlad Tulacek during the Light Hammer throw.
Young Girls Highland dancing.
Craig Winslow during the Light Hammer throw
Sinclair Patience during the Light Hammer throw.
Puppies!!

Highland dancing.
Fraser MacDonald during the Long jump.
Ewen Bradley during the Long jump.
Sunshine and piggybacks.
Kilts out.
Commentator Robert Lovie.
Families enjoy the day.
Are you in the crowd?
Young highland dancing.
A different view point.

James Dawkins during the light stone.

Highland dancing.
Inverurie pipe band.
Towie and District Pipe Band.
Meldrum Mile kids race.
Run run!!
Meldrum Mile kids race.
Wrestlezone.
Pinned to the ground.
Did you attend the Oldmeldrum Sports and Highland Games 2023.
200m run.

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