The Open Stone is one of the traditional throwing events of the Highland Games and belongs to a much older tradition of testing strength by putting or throwing stones for distance. Long before standardized athletic equipment existed, stones were readily available, varied naturally in size and shape, and provided a simple way for competitors to measure strength against one another. Historical Scottish traditions include both lifting stones and smaller “stones of strength” used for throwing contests.

As Highland Games developed into organized athletic competitions, stone putting became one of the established heavy events. Today there are two principal versions: the Braemar Stone and the Open Stone. Unlike the heavier Braemar Stone, which is thrown from a standing position, the Open Stone generally uses a lighter stone and allows the athlete to move within the throwing area before release.

The stone must still be “put” with one hand from the neck or shoulder rather than thrown like a baseball. Because movement is permitted, athletes may glide, shuffle, or spin to build speed and momentum, making the Open Stone resemble the modern shot put while retaining the irregular natural stone that connects it to its Highland Games heritage.

Every stone is a little different, and that is part of the tradition. Instead of competing with a perfectly manufactured metal shot, Highland athletes must adapt to the weight, shape, and balance of the stone placed before them.

The result is an event that combines an ancient and wonderfully simple challenge — how far can you put the stone? — with the speed, strength, balance, and technique of modern Highland athletics.