Haggis Hurling hilarity hailed as Highland Hi-jinx

As the cold January winds whistled outside, our Scout session was transformed into a bustling arena of Scottish tradition and friendly competition. To celebrate Burns Night, we decided to host our very own mini Highland Games, swapping the rolling hills of the Cairngorms for the local community hall and replacing heavy iron equipment with creative, homemade alternatives. The evening was a fantastic blend of physical challenge and cultural discovery, proving that you don’t need a kilt or a professional stadium to capture the spirit of the Highlands.

Once the teams were settled, the games began in earnest with the legendary caber toss. Since a full-sized larch trunk was a bit too much for the hall, we used tent poles. The Scouts quickly learned that the secret isn’t just about strength; it is all about the technique of flipping the "log" so it lands perfectly straight ahead. Next came the sheaf toss, where we used a broom handle to pitch a pillow over a high bar, a task that required surprising coordination and a bit of a heave-ho.

The laughter reached its peak during the haggis hurl and the welly throw. For the hurl, we crafted our own "haggises" using socks filled with rice crispies, and the Scouts took turns standing on a sturdy block to see who could launch their grain-filled prey the furthest without it bursting. The welly wanging followed a similar pattern, with oversized boots flying through the air as everyone vied for the title of longest distance. To balance the heavy throwing events. We rounded off the athletic portion of the night with a classic tug o’ war, which truly tested the teamwork and grit of each clan.

Of course, no Burns Night celebration would be complete without a proper Scottish feast. After the winners were announced and the "medals" handed out, we gathered around for a traditional tasting of haggis, neeps, and tatties. For many of the Scouts, this was their first time trying Scotland’s national dish, and there was plenty of brave curiosity as they dug into the savory haggis alongside mashed turnips and potatoes. It was the perfect way to wind down after a night of high-energy competition, sharing a meal and reflecting on the history of Robert Burns. By the time we packed away the pool noodles and wellies, everyone left with a full stomach and a newfound appreciation for Scottish heritage.