The games were born out of a celebration by the successful Kilmore Tug-o-war team after Seil Games.

It was decided that we could run a games in Kilmore and we were given use of a fairly flat field near the Barn Bar in 1979. After a couple of fundraising events we opened up and had a great day. The prize-winners had to wait until the gate money was passed to the secretary to pay it out.

Following the first year’s success, funds were raised to establish a more attractive prize fund and we attracted some excellent competitors.  The games moved to the spectacular venue of the field in the grounds of Glenfeochan House, Kilmore, that year and have continued there since with only two breaks due to foot and mouth and re-seeding.

Over the years we have had pipe band competitions, shinty matches and pony events. We had a visit from a Florida band who were great fun and also American Gospel Choirs. There have been competitors from all over the world taking part, some who had just dropped in on holiday.

In 2000 we were featured on the TV programme Blue Peter, showing Kilmore to the world.  The Games has always attempted to focus on family and junior events and has had good support from the schools.

While the core committee is very small there is always good support from the community when the work is needed to put things together on the day.

Dave Mudie
15th July 2007

Page Last Updated - 31/10/2007