Gala Week Events and how to get involved.
The Raft Race
The Raft Race is held at Craig’s Bridge which is halfway between Strathaven and Sandford on the Lesmahagow Road. It is organised by the Strathaven and District Round Table. It is open to teams of four, each over 16 years of age, who should design and build their own raft. The raft should have a keel, but no motor. Bring paddles.
There is a men’s race, a women’s race and a mixed race, and cash prizes for the winners’ nominated charities. Round Table can accommodate anyone who wants to put in a team, but are unable to design and build their own raft.
For further details contact Graeme Campbell on 07825 583 905 or RT@GraemeCampbell.co.uk
Church Service
The Gala Week Church Service will be held in the West Church on Sunday 6th June at 7pm.
Canoe Race
This is held at the boating pond using six boats. There is no pre-registration and no charge. It is open to children between 8 and 15 years of age and teams are organised on the night from those present. There are medals for the winners in four age categories.
The Duck Race
The Duck Race is organised by the Gala. It is open to everyone. You can sponsor a yellow bath duck that has a number permanently marked on it for £1. The ducks are released into the burn from the bridge nearest the bandstand, and the winning numbers are announced when they arrive at the finish line. First duck home wins a prize of £100.
Netball Competition and Swimming Gala
For both events, the teams are organised by the primary schools. To be part of these competitions, you have to be picked to represent your school.
Car Treasure Hunt
This is organised by Alan Izatt. Teams register on the night at the Abbeyfield Car Park in Station Road at a cost of £5 per car. You are given a list of questions to be answered as you make your way round the route, and some items have to be collected and taken back to the finish as a tiebreaker.
After the treasure hunt, teams gather at the Avendale Church for marking the results and refreshments. This is open to all but the results won't be in until after 10pm.
The Crags Race
This is a running race organised by the Strathaven Striders. It is open to everyone, but those under 14 years of age race round the perimeter of the park. Those over 14 years race out of the park, up Glasgow Road, turn left into the Crags, straight ahead at the crossroads, turn left down Lethame Road and back into the park.
There are medals, and this is a fun race that many will participate in. Note the different registration times. The event is free to children, but adults pay £3. For further details contact Irene Wilson on 01357 520141.
The Best Kept Garden
Open to Flower and vegetable Gardens. This will be judged on Friday afternoon prior to Gala Day and the winner will be announced after the Crowning Ceremony. To register your entry, please contact Colin Dempster on 01357 523535.