Famous Grouse is name of the games

Aug 1 2008 by Gordon Bannerman, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

PERTH Highland Games organisers yesterday toasted news that The Famous Grouse is to be the main sponsor of the South Inch crowd-puller on Sunday, August 10.

Provost John Hulbert will be chieftain and guest-of-honour and, as befits tradition, will officially start proceedings at the annual gathering – always one of the summer highlights in the Fair City.

There’s an international flavour to this year’s games.

They have attracted a record entry in the pipe band competition, with over 30 taking part and seven lured from as far away as Australia.

The current “world’s strongest man” champion, Mariusz Pudzianowski, will demonstrate his strength by attempting to pull a fire engine.

In another first, and to highlight Scotland’s growing links with Eastern Europe, an area has been created on the games field to host the Polish Consulate along with various charity stalls to inform people about Polish culture.

To mark their headline sponsorship, The Famous Grouse will present a personalised bottle of whisky to the chieftain and winners.

The Famous Grouse Experience – the spiritual home of the brand at Glenturret distillery, Crieff – will have an exhibitor stand at the event and making an appearance throughout the day will be The Famous Grouse mascot.

Andrew Rettie, secretary of Perth Highland Games, said: “We are delighted to have The Famous Grouse on board again this year as main sponsor. Following the sad cancellation of the games last year due to extreme weather conditions, we are looking forward to a record turn-out in competitions and to providing an entertaining day out for locals and tourists.”

Beth McMillan, marketing manager at The Famous Grouse Experience, said: “The Famous Grouse, which was first produced in Perth more than 100 years ago, has been a supporter of local events for many years. We place a great deal of value on the brand’s strong Perth roots and we are delighted to be the main sponsor of one of the biggest outdoor events in the city.”