Scottish Highland Games Association

MARKINCH HIGHLAND GAMES PREVIEW by Shane Fenton.

One of Scotland’s top professional cyclists is gearing up to compete at this Sunday's [June 3rd] Markinch Highland Games.

Evan Oliphant [30] from Wick who now rides for Team Raleigh-GAC on the international circuit found a gap in his busy schedule, and will return to his roots to ride on the grass track at Markinch. Oliphant who represented Scotland at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne is entered to compete in four races on Sunday, including the Scottish 8000 metres Scottish Championship. The last time he contested this event was in 2004 when he broke the course record. In all 12 cyclists are entered along with 5 youth bikers.

There is also a big entry for the running events, the Lomond Homes 90 metres Handicap which carries a top prize of £200 will be run off in 8 heats 2 x-ties and a final, all taking place on a 'Chariots of Fire' type string-laned track, the only one of its kind left on the Highland Games circuit.

The Games will also stage two special 60 metres handicaps to celebrate the Queens Diamond Jubilee, one for the backmarkers and one for the vets.

There is also Handicaps over 200m, 400m, 800m, 1600m and 3200m for the Open competitors, as well as a relay.

A good entry has also been received for the Youth races, they have the same events as the Open competitors apart from the 3200m.

There is no confirmation as yet who will take part in the Heavy Events, another strong field is anticipated however, last year Gregor Edmunds thrilled the crowds in freezing conditions as he broke the World record for the 28lb Weight for Distance with a throw of 95' 10''.

Although not to be as hot as last weekend the forecast is that it should at least stay dry.

Shane Fenton

Published: 2012-05-31 16:45:33