Markinch Games decision expected soon after Cupar cancel

Vlad Tulacek of the Czech Republic with the Caber at a recent Markinch Games (Pic by Nige Hutchison.)

Bill McSeveney, chair of the Cupar Highland Games, took to social media this week to confirm those games will sadly not be held.

Given the scale of the Kingdom’s various games, organising them would now be in full flow.

And despite the on-going roll-out of the vaccine, organising groups believe the deadlines would just be too fine for them to be staged this year.

Vlad Tulacek tossing the caber at Markinch Highland Games (picture: Nige Hutchsion)

In 2020 the entire Highland Games schedule was wiped out.

Shane Fenton, secretary of the Markinch Highland Games, conceded that Covid-19 may well have a similar impact this year.

Mr Fenton said: “Cupar Highland Games have been cancelled for the second year in succession owing to the uncertainty of the Covid-19 situation.

"The games were due to have been held in the Duffus Park on Sunday, June 20.

"The organising committee, however, feel restrictions won't be relaxed enough to allow the event to take place.

"As secretary of the Markinch Highland Games, which are scheduled for June 6, I have to agree with them.

"We will make a decision on our event in the next few weeks.

"Despite vaccinations taking place at pace, only over 50s are expected to have been given the jab by the end of May.

"It won't be like flicking a switch, social distancing and restrictions on gatherings at events like games are likely to be the last to be relaxed and it could be well into later in the year before that happens.

"It is also likely that a games would have to be in tier 0 to be allowed to realistically go ahead as normal.”

Under normal circumstances the games can attract hundreds of fans with competitors travelling from across the country to take part.

Mr McSeveney said the decision to cancel Cupar’s games had been made with “considerable regret”.

He added: “To our athletes and performers - our sincere regrets.

"We know how much you value the opportunity to showcase your talents - and we know just how much your participation brings pleasure to all who visit us.”

Cupar were the first games last year to cancel before others followed.