Former Scotland rugby star named as Stirling Highland Games Chieftain

A former Scotland rugby international has been named as the Honorary Chieftain of this year’s Stirling Highland Games.

Kevin McKenzie, 56, has been handed the prestigious role for the event in August.

Kevin, from Stirling, played for Scotland, as well as Stirling County as a hooker.

Now an after-dinner speaker, he was a formidable rugby player in his day, starting as a seven-year-old at Bridgehaugh.

He went on to play Scotland at under-15 and under-18 level as well as Scottish Schools under-19s.

As he climbed the ladder, he captained the Scotland under-21 side, played Scotland B internationals and is Glasgow Warrior No43. He also captained Stirling County at its height in the mid-90s including the game against the Barbarians at Forthbank Stadium.

His dedication to play for his country showed as although he sat on the bench 25 times during his international career, he gained 14 caps between 1993 and 1998, playing in the 1995 Rugby World Cup and touring with Scotland to Argentina, New Zealand and Australia.

With his long-standing commitment to the club where he started playing, he continues to support and fundraise for Stirling County.

Reflecting on his appointment, Kevin expressed his gratitude and excitement for the opportunity to serve as the Honorary Chieftain.

“I’m very proud and honoured to be asked to be Chieftain of the Stirling Highland Games.

“It’s nice to be recognised in this way and I am very proud of my local Stirling heritage and roots,” he said.

McKenzie continued, “The Stirling Highland Games represent not only a celebration of Scottish culture but it’s also an amazing sporting community event.

“I look forward to joining fellow Scots and visitors from around the globe in commemorating its heritage and encouraging the many athletes competing on the day to do their very best.”

President of the Stirling Highland Games Committee, Matt McGrandles, expressed his delight at having Kevin McKenzie as this year’s Honorary Chieftain.

Matt said: “We’re thrilled to have Kevin as our Honorary Chieftain for the 2024 Stirling Highland Games.

“Having played alongside Kev at club and district level I’m well aware of his passion for rugby.

“His commitment and leadership on the field were inspiring so I’m sure we can expect something similar as our Chieftain.

“My committee and I look forward to welcoming him to our gathering on the day.”

The Stirling Highland Games is scheduled to take place in Stirling on Saturday, August 17.

Event organisers Ceangail are looking to build on last year’s event with the usual traditional Highland Games competitions to watch; there will be the trader’s village with street food and craft beers as well as market traders and producers; plus an interesting creative arts offering to celebrate the Stirling Burgh being 900 years old.

For more information about the games and to purchase tickets, visit www.stirlinghighlandgames.com .