This year, as usual, Gourock Highland Games was the first Highland Gathering on the long list of events of the national calendar.

Highland Games have their origins in the Clan System and date back over hundreds of years. Supposedly the Clan Chief would encourage his men to participate in feats of strength, skill and endurance to prove themselves skilled for battle. While the competitive elements of the games are still an integral part of the proceedings, the spectacle of Highland Dancers and Pipers, combined with the colour and grandeur of the Scottish scenery, make Highland games and gatherings a highlight for every visitor to Scotland.

The sound that entirely dominates these events is the skirl of the bagpipes and rattle of sidedrums during the continuous Band Competitions and Highland Dancing Competitions. Pipe Bands travel from all over to gather at these events, and a wonderous melodious mixture of sound can be savoured by the visitor while wandering among the arenas and warm-up areas.

Tossing the Caber is the most prestigious of the Heavy Events, which include throwing the Hammer, the Shot and the Stone (though not all at once). Gourock's games are typical of the friendly, family orientated nature of these meetings. Pure fun.