Clouds clear for another stunning Hororata Highland Games

Clouds clear for another stunning Hororata Highland Games

The 7th annual Hororata Highland Games has again seen this rural community stage a suburb event enjoyed by over 10,000 people; with 12 Pipe Bands, over 100 Highland Dancers (officially the biggest one day competition in New Zealand), 58 solo pipers and drummers, 18 wool spinners, 140 tuggers, 68 Junior Warriors, 6 shooters and 20 heavy athletes competing.

The weather was moody in the morning, keeping to the Scottish theme with a short period of rain, but right on queue at 11 am as the crowd stilled for an Armistice Day remembrance, the clouds parted and the sun shone through. The Malvern Schools combined Kupa Haka group then welcomed Chieftain Hon Amy Adams with a stirring performance.

Chieftain Hon Amy Adams spoke of how she has attended every Horoata Highland Games since its inception. It is one event she really looks forward to because of the community spirit which can be felt from the minute you reach the Domain. In her heartfelt speech, she commented on 'how this amazing community pulled together and rebuilt after the life-changing earthquakes, and right from the start, the Games have been spectacular. Amy congratulated the Games committee and the community on another highly professional and well-organized event.'

The Gough CAT Oceania Heavyweight Championship was won by New Zealander, Jono MacFarlane, who also broke a field record tossing the 56lb weight over a 15.5 foot bar. Ashburton's Craig Manson came second in his first time in this division. Third was Australian Scott Martin. The women's Gough CAT Amature Championship was won by Julie Stechman and the men’s was taken out by David Jackways both also from New Zealand.

The festival surrounding the competitions was enjoyed by all. 1000's of people took on the 'Have A Go' challenges and were entertained with numerous performances around the grounds in amongst the stalls. Steve McDonald, who has performed at highland games around the world, said 'Hororata Highland Games are one of the best he has ever attended'.

All this simply would not be possible without the over 200 volunteers, competitors, partners, stall holders, suppliers and of course the visitors. The Hororata Community Trust thanks, everyone who makes our games truly special. Next year's event is the 10th November 2017. A full list of results will be available at www.hororatahighlandgames.org.nz

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