TEAMS from Glasgow, London and Ireland are set to pitch up in Helensburgh this weekend for the annual Helensburgh and Loch Lomond Hockey Fling.
Now in its fourth year, having begun in 2018 and returned last year after Covid, the eagerly-awaited event will see matches taking place on Saturday and Sunday.
The action, though, starts off the pitch, at the bar at Helensburgh Rugby Club, where the teams taking part will meet up and enjoy a social evening before the main event starts the next day.
The Helensburgh and Loch Lomond Hockey Fling is back on the weekend of July 1 and 2
The hockey itself gets under way at 11am on Saturday, July 1, with action on both the astroturf pitches at Lomond School and the grass surfaces at the rugby club across the road.
The seven-a-side mixed tournament will be played all day on Saturday before the teams don their kilts and tartan dresses for a ceilidh in the evening, with music from Helensburgh’s very own Crowded Croft.
The action then resumes with finals day on Sunday as the teams compete for the Clyde Bar Cup, donated to the club by the Clyde Bar before the original festival five years ago.
The Helensburgh and Loch Lomond Hockey Fling is back on the weekend of July 1 and 2
A spokesperson for the organisers said: “We’re hoping for weather like last year to keep everyone in good spirits.
“Each year, the committee look to make it bigger and better, and this year e are delighted to welcome StormHockey pitch side. Jon from StormHockey will be at the pitch with his pop-up shop, allowing festival goers to try out some sticks, and purchase new hockey gear for the upcoming season.
“As well as that, sponsors RB Steel have donated a stick from StormHockey for the ever-improving raffle, which will also include other goodies such as hockey gear and the usual bottles.
The Helensburgh and Loch Lomond Hockey Fling is back on the weekend of July 1 and 2
“As well as the pop-up hockey shop, there will be some fun carnival games for hockey players to attempt, winning themselves some prizes. All proceeds from the Fling go towards improving the weekend next year.
“The organisers would like to offer thanks to the sponsor, RB Steel, to StormHockey, for coming to the festival and to Helensburgh Rugby Club for being our gracious hosts.”
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