Yesterday's heroes...

Heroes Index

Boleskine 1964

Pictured, Back Row, L to R; Ken Ross Senior, Bobby MacLeod, John Murray, Hugh Fraser, Garry MacLeod, Billy Stoddart, Ala MacGruer, Johnny Kennedy, Ken Ross, William Batchen.
Front Row L to R; Caley MacLaren, Charlie Kennedy, Alister Forbes, Alfie Fraser, Billy MacKay.

Boleskine Camanachd 1964 with The Sutherland and Strathdearn Cups

A famous year for the young and inexperienced Boleskine team bringing home two of Shinty's most prized trophies The Sutherland and Strathdearn Cups. The Sutherland Cup being awarded to Scotland's National Junior Champions and the Strathdearn awarded to Scotland's North Junior Champions. This picture was taken at the Factory Field Foyers.

The Sutherland Cup was won at Strachur against Kyles Athletic by 4 goals to nil in a match that was noted, not just for the high quality of play from both teams, but the attendance of the Russian Prime Minister Kosygin and Foreign Secretary Gromyko. They were presented with camans for their return to Russia, old worn out ones it must be stressed!
Ala MacGruer was pictured recovering from a work accident where he lost most of one of his fingers, he had played all season for the club and unfortunately had to miss the Sutherland Final because of his injury. Ala is a local legend when it comes to fishing and his knowledge of Loch Ness is peerless. He was recently featured in one of Paul Young's 'Hooked on Scotland' programs, unfortunately they hooked a sizable fish which managed to elude the gaff, the look on Ala's face was priceless!

Also pictured is Alfiie Fraser who, missed the 66 final due to work commitments. He played for Boleskine when they reformed in 1969 and continued playing up to the mid eighties.

© D M D 2000