In today’s competitions, these events adhere to strict rules and codes. Events include Caber Toss, Putting the Stone, 16 lb. Hammer Toss, 28 lb. Weight – Distance, 56 lb. Weight – Distance, and 56 lb. Weight – Height.

Throwing the Weights
This competition consists of two separate events. Both are derived from ancient tests of military skills. The weight used for distance throwing is reminiscent of a mace. The weight used for throwing for height resembles a grappling hook once used to scale fortifications. The “weight for distance” contest uses a weight consisting of a ball and chain. There are three standard weight divisions: 14+28lbs for the women, 28+56lbs for the men, and 28+42lbs for the Masters. Each weight must be thrown with one hand. With a combination of balance, rhythm, and power, this is often considered a graceful athletic event. The second event, the “Weight Over the Bar,” uses a 56 lb. (men), 28 lb. (women), or 42 lb. (masters) weight usually with a ring attached. Each athlete is allowed three attempts to clear a marked height before the bar is raised. The victor is the sole thrower who can clear the highest bar.

Putting the Stone
This popular contest is derived from an ancient clan ritual. Each chieftain’s “stone of strength” was situated at the entrance of his castle. Before entry was granted, every visiting clansman was obligated to test his strength by throwing it for distance. This was perhaps to insure that certain guests would be capable of the castle’s defence. If besieged, the successful stone putter would be posted on the battlements, hurling large boulders down upon the attackers. The Stone Throw at many Games follow the “Braemar” style. In Braemar competition, a stone, weighing up to 26 lbs., is thrown from a stationary position.

Hammer Throwing
The history of this event is much debated. Some suggest that, like throwing the weight, the hammer is analogous to the ancient mace. Other have claimed it derives from a simple contest between village smithies. Whether of military or agrarian origins, it has grown into an internationally recognized Olympic event. Not to be confused with its all-metal counterpart used in the Olympics, the Scots’ hammer has a wooden shaft made of cane, an overall length of 50 inches and comes in two weights: “Light” (up to 16 lbs.) and “Heavy” (up to 22 lbs.). Both are thrown standing-style, wound several times around the head, and released straight behind the thrower.

The Caber Toss
Historically, a felled tree trunk or caber was used to bridge deep, swiftly-running rivers. Less inclined to wash out when laid at a right angle to the river, accuracy of placement was both a highly developed skill and a dire necessity if one’s men were to cross the swift rapids. Today’s athletic competition is still judged on the accuracy rather than the distance of the throw. At 100 lbs., or more, and often at least 18 feet long, the caber is held by the narrower end, while its thicker, more unwieldy end points skyward. Once lifted by the athlete, the caber must be run forward, stopped dead and then heaved end over end. If the perfect “twelve o’ clock toss” is made, the tree trunk will have landed dead straight ahead with its narrow end pointing away from the athlete.