Cowal Highland Gathering The event that would evolve into the Cowal Gathering was first held on 11 August 1894, and organised by local man Robert Cameron. 1906 saw the introduction of a pipe band competition for Army bands, at the suggestion of Malcolm McCulloch. 25 band entered in 1909, the first year that civilian bands were allowed to compete. The Argyll Shield, donated in 1906 by Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, is still awarded to the winning band in the Grade 1 competition. The easy access of Dunoon by paddle steamer from Glasgow contributed to popularity of the Games. The Games also featured
Crieff Highland Games Scouts) 2008 John Beattie (Scottish international rugby player and BBC Scotland radio host) Crieff Highland Games The Crieff Highland Gathering was founded in 1870 at Crieff in Scotland. It has been a regular fixture in August every year except during World War I and between 1939-1949. The games feature a large array of Highland Activities, including Highland dancing and heavyweight events. At first the games were held in Academy Park (within the grounds of Morrisons Academy School) but in 1880 moved to the Market Park where they have been ever since. The highland games is run by Crieff Highland Gathering