Stirling, Scotland – The Stirling Highland Games 2025 was a resounding success, drawing in a record-breaking crowd of 7,866 visitors to the historic city on Saturday. The event, which took place against the backdrop of the cityscape and the Wallace Monument, showcased Scotland’s rich culture and heritage through a day filled with tradition, community spirit, and entertainment.
The 2025 Games Chieftain, Lyndsay O’Donnell, oversaw the festivities, from the cheers of the heavyweight arena to the swirl of Highland dancing kilts. The event once again solidified its reputation as one of Scotland’s premier Highland Games.
The Highland Dancing competition saw over 200 dancers showcase their discipline, grace, and athleticism in the traditional Highland repertoire. Among the winners were Jess Whyte from Dallmellington, Ayrshire (Premier 10yrs and under), Piper Lindsay from Australia (Premier 11yrs and under 13yrs), Libby Stewart from Dumbarton (Premier 13yrs and under 15yrs), Ellie Murgha from Australia (Premier 15yrs and under 17yrs), and Katjana Bruinsma from Canada (Premier 17yrs and over). The international flavor of the results highlighted Stirling’s global reach, with competitors from across the world.
The Heavyweight Competitions were a crowd favorite, as athletes battled it out in traditional tests of strength, skill, and stamina. The winners were Aaron Castle from Växjö, Sweden (1st place), Kyle Randalls from Falkirk, Scotland (2nd place), and Craig Winslow from Gartcosh, Scotland (3rd place). The Adaptive Heavyweights category, a proudly inclusive feature of the Stirling Games, saw inspiring performances from Jim Holborn (1st place), Fraser Rowan (2nd place), David Dent and Neil Marshall (3rd place tie). The Junior Heavyweights also showed promise, with standout efforts from Jack Devanny and Struan Anderson, signaling a bright future for the sport.
The Games’ athletic track was alive with sprinting, distance running, cycling, and jumps. Among the winners were Nina Cessford from TLJT (Open 90m), Ben Bates from Tullibody (Open 200m), Natasha Turnbull from Peebles (Open 400m), Dean Whiteford from Innerleithen (Open 800m), and Ron Loewen from Canada (Open 1600m). Youth categories highlighted future stars like Emanuel Banton from Clydesdale Harriers, who won both the 90m and 200m races. Paul Anderson from Perth and Dave Mathieson from Newburgh dominated the cycling events, while Stuart Whiteford from Innerleithen took first place in the long jump and Kieran Halliday from Denny won the triple jump.
The legendary Bruce Challenge captivated the crowds once again, with athletes attempting to walk the 164.5kg Scottish stones as far as possible. Although Tim Meadows took 1st place, his 2023 record of 134.5m still stands. The other winners were Bradley Mitchell (2nd place) and Arron O’Connell (3rd place).
One of the biggest highlights of the 2025 Games was the expanded Food and Drink area, which created a vibrant festival atmosphere throughout the day. With 25 local and national vendors, visitors enjoyed everything from roast hog rolls and steak burgers to lobster baguettes, venison burgers, and Scottish-topped pizzas. The area also showcased Scotland’s thriving drinks industry, with Scottish gin, whisky, and rum, alongside the official bar sponsor, Innis & Gunn. The zone was described by many visitors as “a festival within the festival,” with families relaxing over craft street food, fans raising a toast to athletes, and music filling the air.
The bustling Traders’ Village featured 35 artisan stalls, offering an array of handcrafted treasures, including woodwork, fine jewelry, paintings, and tartan goods. The village was a hive of activity all day, with visitors meeting makers, discovering unique souvenirs, and learning more about Scotland’s living traditions of craftsmanship.
The Creative Arts Schedule added depth and color to the day, with performances and talks running alongside the competitions. Highlights included piper Michael Naismith, who entertained across the grounds with stirring sets throughout the day, the Stirling Gaelic Choir, the Scotland Talks series, and a live acoustic set by Jodie Differ. Children enjoyed face painting and heritage tours, while families gathered for interactive sessions celebrating Scotland’s past and present.
The Stirling Highland Games 2025 set a new record for attendance, with 7,866 visitors streaming through the gates. The event was a true celebration of Scottish pride and energy, with a diverse mix of traditional competitions, creative performances, and family-friendly activities.
