Henry Schomberg Kerr, 9th Marquis of Lothian, gave the land at Lothian Park in Jedburgh, more commonly known as the Virgin Glebe to the local inhabitants for general use in 1878, which became the second Jedburgh Border Games venue.

Almost simultaneous with the first peel of the sixth hour, was the report of cannon and the martial strains of the band. The ceaseless struggle for life had temporarily given way to happy inertia, and all seemed bent on enjoyment. It was cheery and pleasant, in the cool of the fine breezy morning of 1878, to walk round the rendezvous of the day's proceedings, soon to be crowded with a mass of human life not more motley than heterogeneous. As the morning crept on, the trains brought a large number of excursionists, and these together with those of the surrounding district speedily augmented the gathering crowd. By nine o'clock, the road leading to the Lothian Park was crowded and by ten, the rendezvous showed an amount of life, brilliancy and animation only to be seen once a year. Loiterers, loungers and loafers in every costume, smoking short pipes and large cigars, all had a subdued air of respectability. White teeth and rosy cheeks, gifts of nature or works of art, flit about incessantly. Little feet patter restlessly to and fro, and in their rapid movements display red stockings, taper waists, brilliant ribbons, gossamer veils encircling the waist, impossible hats with plumes unknown to ornothology and improbable coils of brass wire that glance and flash in the sun. All, so suggestive of a fond embrace. The ceaseless shifting of colour affects the eye like the changing of a kaleidoscope from our schooldays. But, we must return to Market Place for the first event in the proceedings, The Bicycle Handicap of 1½ miles. Easton of Jedburgh made a good start from the scratch mark, but W. Fox, Lempitlaw from a 60 yards start, held his ground well. It seemed that Easton had little chance of making up such a distance, but he ultimately came in second to the winner, J. H. Laing of Hawick who had started with 5 yards advantage. The Open Foot Race of 100 Yards was a spectacular event. If anything Aitken of Walkerburn had a slight start, but was soon made up on by Dan Wight, evidently back this year to claim his title. The pair ran neck and neck for a considerable part of the course, but about 20 yards from the tape, Dan put on a spurt and came in to take first prize in fine style. Mather of Kelso tripped and fell about 30 yards behind and therefore lost third prize. The Open Handicap Foot Race of 150 Yards was this year billed as 'The Border Cup.' This was looked upon generally as the event of the day, and while many of the preceding heats created attention, the final, was necessarily the ground for enthusiasm. Hogg kept well forward for a considerable distance and Brown, who shows promise of becoming a runner of no mean order, ran well, but failing to maintain his pace, allowed Thomas Aitken of Walkerburn, who is a ped of some note, to pass him and carry off the laurels. Second was Robert Brown, Jedburgh. George Hogg, Ancrum took third place. The final of 'The Forester's Cup' Handicap Race of 300 yards was decidedly the best race of the day. George Hogg's style and finish being deservedly applauded, where, on breasting the tape he was greeted with a hearty welcome by his admirers and others as the proud winner of this event. T. P. Williamson, Hawick took second place, and J. Robertson, Jedburgh was third. During the afternoon, a swimming event took place in a stretch of the river above the scene of the sports. The water was somewhat shallow, but the young competitors showed themselves adept in aquatic performance. Results were 1st, J. Peacock, 2nd, W. Sharp and 3rd, W. Peacock all three representing Jedburgh. A Two Mile Walking Competition was held and won by W. Stenhouse of Lempitlaw. First prize of £1 for The 300 Yards Flat Race was pocketed by Aitken of Walkerburn. It was thought that Dan would have managed to secure the premier place, but he made a slip in turning, and hence the result, where he came second, with T. P. Williamson of Hawick taking third place. Bowmont of St Boswells claimed The Confined Lothian Handicap prize from a start of 50 yards, leaving M. Curran, Jedburgh with second prize. Instead of the Dunion Handicap, a two mile race was this year ran on the flat, and won by J. Hunter, Edinburgh.

	The Glasgow Cup won by Robert Knox and inscribed with his name. This trophy was still competed for until 2004 when it was finally withdrawn from competition for display as a museum piece.

Everyone one wore a cheerful expression of countenance when they got up on Saturday morning, and saw a clear sky, and the sun beginning to glimpse over the hills for The Games of 1879. Noticed among the crowd of several hundreds who gathered together at Market Place for the opening ceremonies, were a good few gaily dressed lasses, anxious to see what was going on. An early Quoiting Match at Lothian Park had the effect of drawing out a number to witness, what to the uninitiated, appears to be a tedious game in the extreme. The committee were successful in making the addition of several new prizes and at least one new feature to the programme this year. The presentation of a prize cup by Jethart Callants employed at the McKeesport National Tube Works in America is the prize for an 800 Yards Handicap Race confined to Jedburgh. The Edinburgh and Leith Plate is another example of the same friendly spirit of a donation by Jedburgh lads living away from home, while the Border Cup for the 150 Yards Open Handicap comes from our own local natives working in Glasgow. The Birmingham Prize has been given for the first time this year for a Half Mile Youths event. At athletics meetings where nothing but money prizes are offered, it is known that the competitors arrange amongst themselves who is to win and who is to lose, on the understanding that the money will be equally divided at the end of the day. The races are in this way completely shorn of their interest. Trophies, not being divisible, the committee feels that there is less likelihood of the spectators being hoaxed in this fashion by being taken in by an event which is already a foregone conclusion. The High Street was filled with onlookers, and crowded open windows. Every place where a view of the start could be obtained was taken. The 1½ Mile Velocipede Handicap Race with first prize of a silver cup given by members of the "Thistle" Cricket Club was under way. The start was not very good, but once on the road the pace heated up some. Tully of Wolflee who started at 90 yards this year, passed Cumming of Jedburgh at the Townfoot Bridge who handicapped from 100 yards, and led down to the turning point and up again, pushed hard by Cumming until fully abreast at the bridge again. Cumming while on the bridge put his legs on the rest, while Tully pressed on home, winning by a long distance. At the top of High Street, Donaldson crept up and passed Cumming, but was unfortunately brought down in a collision with a bystander, and consequently, Cumming took second place. True to form, The 100 yards Open Foot Race was again, held by Dan Wight. Wight wedged himself through Aitken and Bowmont at the start, and won easy by a yard or two. Aitken, Walkerburn was second and Bowmont, St Boswells, third. 'The Border Cup' Handicap Open Race of 150 Yards this year was an exceedingly close race. Robert Knox from Newstead who was running from 15 yards had a close shave to take first place in the final, as the others were close up at the finish. James Peacock from Jedburgh came in a close second from 21 yards and J. Maxwell of Hawick, running from the 16 yard line took third place. A Swimming Competition held in the river Jed this year was won by F. Crichton from Edinburgh. Crichton holds a medal for saving life and held off the others with a beautiful side stroke, but any speed attempt had to be thwarted due to the shallowness of the water in places. The American Prize of 800 yards Confined to Jedburgh was won by James Tait off 75 yards, and the 'Foresters Cup' 300 Yards Handicap Race confined to Jedburgh went to George Hogg from Ancrum. First prize for the afternoon Open Flat Race of 300 Yards was won by Wight of Jedburgh. In a fine spin, Dan led Aitken and Thomson a good chase, and won by about two yards. Aitken of Walkerburn took second. Aitken finally got his break in the Warrington Prize, a 500 Yards Hurdle Race with an easy win over Wight who wasn't pressed much by Bowmont of St Boswells, the third home. A team of volunteers versed 10 of the Games Committee in a Tug of War this year. No keen sporting interest is attached to such contests unless parishes or local towns are pitted against each other. In this case there was nothing but a laugh created. The first prize for the Two Mile Open Handicap, no longer a steeplechase to the top of the Dunion Hill, went D. Livingston from Tranent. During the presentation of the cups, Mr Brown said that an old school friend from forty years ago, whose own industry, now, in America, was flourishing on a global scale, was instrumental in subscribing The American Prize to Jedburgh Border games. His friend was Mr George Mathieson 'a Toonfit callant frae Jethart.' He was also happy to mention Mr Robson, son of James Robson, bootmaker from Toonheid who had told him that our friends in America were all honoured to have subscribed to Jethart Games.

There was as usual, a very considerable gathering in Market Place at 6 o'clock on Games morning 1880 to witness the opening competition which takes place between the band and the cannon, and which cheerily inaugurates the day's proceedings. The morning was not bright, but wore a sober grey aspect, which promised to hold out for a good day. There was a general feeling of hope that the sports would not be marred by unpropitious weather. The usual ceremonies were somewhat interfered with by the authority of the Magistrates. On Friday evening, intimation was made to the Games Committee that the Magistrates objected to the firing of the cannon in Market Place, and in consequence of this, the ceremony was carried to the Park. In their eagerness, however, the Games artillerymen anticipated the striking of the hour by the Town Clock, and the first shot was fired too soon. The Band, meantime, under the leadership of Mr Robert Hope, had been patiently awaiting the only legally recognised signal, from the clock and refused to be led astray by the early firing of the cannon. Jedforest Instrumental Band were thus fairly entitled to the honour of victory during the first event of the day. The bells were then immediately rung and a flag hoisted on the Abbey tower to float in the early morning breeze. The band started from the Royal Hotel, proceeded up Canongate through the Market Place, down High Street, along Queen Street and returned to their starting point. The early events of the quoiting competiton were then commenced at the near end of the Park. The main events of the Games started shortly after 10 o'clock. The sun was shining brightly and it was exceedingly warm. The attendance was not very large at first, but it increased gradually as the day advanced. Seven came forward for the 100 Yards Open Footrace. A false start was made at first with only half of the men getting off. There were repeated cries of "Go on!" from the crowd, but those who had started returned to the line. The second start was successful and the runners got away on very good terms. The race was well contested by Dan Wight over the first half of the course, but he seemed to encounter some sort of hitch at the turning point where he was passed by A. Sutherland of Hawick who won by less than a yard. Wight came in to take second place. A. Scott from Yetholm carried off first prize in Putting the Light Ball of 6 Pounds, with a throw of 78ft 9ins. There were five competitors, but all of them failed to approach near to Scott's first throw. Scott also took first prize in Putting the Heavy Ball of 21 Pounds with a 33ft 8ins pitch. Of the five who entered, two retired after the first throw. D. Paterson, Jedburgh took second prize with a throw of 33ft 4½ins. Three ran in the first heat of the Glasgow Cup 150 Yards Open Handicap. A very keen competition took place till near the finish, when Hardie of Melrose who was running second, attempted to catch Adam henderson of Jedburgh running off 17 yards. In doing so, he fell against John Middlemist of Jedburgh who took second place from a start of 20 yards. Three ran in the second heat, and a very close race was won by Adam Tait, Jedburgh from the 18 yards mark. Thos Rennilson, Jedburgh took second place running off 17½ yards. A. Miller, a young boy from Jedburgh who started from 22 yards, led for the greater part of the third heat, but was passed by J. W. Thomson of Jedburgh when near the finish. Thomson started from 13 yards. Mather of Kelso made up his 3 yards start well over the distance. Four ran in the fourth heat, and kept exceptionally well together over the greater part of the course. George Hogg, Ancrum came away in the end from a 14 yards start and won by a yard and a half. There were cries of "Go on Hush!" but Peter Hush from Jedburgh could only manage third place off a 19 yards start. John Hogg of Ancrum took second place from a start of 18 yards. W. Bowman from St Boswells walked over to the final from heat five. In the sixth heat, three ran, and Thomas Michie of Jedburgh running from 14½ yards certainly struggled keenly for the first place. He kept the lead all the way, but was hard pressed by the others. Robert Knox, Newstead took second place, running from 13½ yards. Five contestants ran in the final of the Glasgow Cup, in a very close and exciting race. George Hogg held on to first position with great tenacity from the start. The others were close behind, and the result showed that the handicapping had been done with care. Michie of Jedburgh who should have ran in the final, was unable to compete on account of an injury sustained while participating in the jumping events. Robert Knox of Newstead carried off The Running Hop-Step and Leap first prize with a winning jump of 43ft 5½ins.Four competitors engaged in The Running Leap from whom Robert Knox took first prize once more with his leap of 18ft 3ins. T. Michie of Jedburgh, while jumping, injured his left leg severely and had to be assisted off the field. Six ran in The 'American Prize' Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over five flights of hurdles 3 feet high. The jumping was much admired. T. Rennilson of Jedburgh took the hurdles too warmly, and somewhat injured his running powers, but he pressed the others very hard. R. Hindle of Paisley came in for the first prize of £1. 10/- Second prize of 17/6d went to W. Bowman of St Boswells. Rennilson was third home for 10/-. Dan Wight retired after running a short distance in this event. The Handicap Sack Race over two hurdles 18 inches high was not so interesting as might have been expected. Ther was not a fall, and the competitors were far apart when the winner, Hogg from Ancrum who started from scratch, reached the goal. T. Veitch of Jedburgh came in second from a 5 yards start. The 300 Yards Hurdle Race patronised by the Ladies of Jedburgh saw an entry of five come forward. This was a very fine race with the leaping being executed cleverly. Dan Wight of Jedburgh, however, took the lead and kept it to win the first prize purse of gold with ease. R. Hindle, Paisley came home to take the second purse. The silver purse for third place went to A. Sutherland from Hawick. The first heat in 'The Foresters Cup' Handicap Flat race of 300 Yards gave a walk over to the final for Bowman of St Boswells. This was Bowman's second walk over of the day. Three ran in the second heat. It was a close race between first, Michael Curran of Jedburgh running from 35 yards, and second, C. Craig from Hawick running off 20 yards. Dan Wight who started from scratch, went out of the race about half way. Robert Knox, Newstead starting at 26 yards and J. W. Thomson of Jedburgh from 20 yards were a very close first and second in heat three. John Richardson from Woodhouse had a 45 yards start in this heat, but was hotly pursued by the other two, and retired as soon as he was overtaken. Heat five gave a walk over for A. Hardy of Melrose. The final was a well contested race. Curran of Jedburgh kept well to the front and won by a good distance. Bowman was second, running from 10 yards, and Hardy third from the 26 yards mark.
At about 12.30pm dark clouds collected overhead and rain began to fall. In a short while there was a smart shower that interfered somewhat with the sport. The wrestling for the Tyneside Prize was to have commenced at this time, but it was delayed for a time by the late arrival of some competitors from over the Border. The committee wisely took the opportunity to suspend the activities for the usual interval, and the rain so far as the Games were concerned was thus very much avoided. There was a large increase in the attendance during the afternoon, particularly noticeable in the female portion, whose holiday attire gave a lively and pleasing appearance to the assemblage. A great deal of interest was exhibited in The Two Mile Bicycle Handicap around the ring. In former years this event has taken place between the Market Place and Bongate Toll, but it was suggested as an improvement that it should take place at Lothian Park. The ground is somewhat uneven and stiff for the bicycles, and the riders appeared to have fairly hard work of it. Unfortunately rain began to fall heavily when the competitors were preparing to start, and it was run pluckily amid a perfect downpour while lightning flashes were frequent and vivid, and the thunder extremely loud and resonant. Most of the spectators assembled were driven from the park. The race persevered, however, not withstanding the extreme difficulties. First home was Deans of Hobkirk from a start of 200 yards. Frank Cumming of Jedburgh came in second from a 350 yards start. Third prize was taken by Alex Middlemas, Duns who started from 190 yards. The Games were resumed shortly after 4 o'clock while a slight rain contined to fall and thunder was still heard in the distance. The 'Tyneside Prize' Wrestling Event for 11 stones and Under produced an entry of 18 competitors, most of whom came from Jedburgh and its close proximity. In the third round, a keen and protracted tussle took place between J. Pigg from Lyneside and J. Little of Denholm. The patience of the spectators was quite exhausted when Little fell, evidently, a favourite with the crowd. In the final rounds J. Thomson, Jedburgh was the winner of the £3 prize. T. Blair from Saltport came second to win £1, and Pigg managed to secure the third place prize of 10/-. The 'Jedwater Prize,' a Two Mile Open Handicap Race brought a field of five forward. Two fell out before the race was completed. Michael Curran, Jedburgh who started from 260 yards kept the lead till the second last round, when he was passed by Peter Kay from Newtongrange, running from 123 yards, who maintained first place till the finish for the prize of £2. J. Hunter of Edinburgh from a 80 yards start came in third. The Open Wrestling Competition produced a fine series of skilled rounds and worthy matches. The tussle in the first round between A. Scott, Yetholm and J. Potts, Jedburgh was keenly watched for favour of the local man. Potts' however, had to yield to the powerful throw of his opponent. The final between W. Blair of Saltport Mill and Scott from Yetholm was keen, but there was a general impression that the best was not being done. In the first fall Blair threw Scott, but in the second and third falls Scott threw Blair twice in succession. J. Blair from Saltport Mill, the younger brother, took third prize. The final of The Edinburgh and Leith Plate, Handicap Flat Race of 440 Yards was a good spin. At the close, very little separated the first prize winner, Peter Hush of Jedburgh running from 48 yards and T. Rennilson of Jedburgh who started from 26 yards. J. W. Thomson from Jedburgh who took third prize running off 21 yards was also very close up on Rennilson. The excitement towards the close, when the issue was still doubtful, was very dramatic. Poles of up to 14 feet in length were provided for The Running Pole Leap event, although competitors were allowed to use their own poles. First prize went to W. H. Irvine of Hawick with a fine leap of 9ft 6ins. William Bathgate of Jedburgh's vault of 9ft was good enough to secure second prize. The Lothian Handicap of 800 Yards, confined to the Border counties brought forward an entry of thirteen, but about half retired during the course of the race. T. Rennilson of Jedburgh, from the 32 yards mark came to the front in good form, and reahed home first amidst rapturous cheering from the crowd. John Hall from Jedburgh came in second from a 35 yards start. Third place fell to W. Hogg of Ancrum who had the benefit of a 76 yards start. Bowman of St Boswells, and Hindle from Paisley shared first prize in The Open Flat Race of Half a Mile, with P. Thornton of Edinburgh taking third prize. The Running High Leap first prize went to T. McDougall, Galashiels with a best perfomance of 5ft 6ins. A. Scott, Swinton came second with a 5ft 5ins leap. Dan Wight led for most of the way in The 300 Yards Flat Race, but being pressed by Sutherland of Hawick, towards the close, and observing this, he put on a spurt to come in an easy winner. Third place in this event went to George Mather of Kelso. The 'Stobbs Castle Cup' One Mile Handicap confined to the Border counties produced an entry of nine competitors. T. Telfer of Jedburgh who ran off the 220 yards mark maintained the lead throughout to come in a good winner. Second place going to A. Veitch, Jedburgh, and third to W. Oliver, a baker from Jedburgh, were so close as almost to be equal. The final event on the programme of a Two Mile Open Race, which now takes the place of the former Dunion Handicap Steeplechase was won by the stalwart Peter Kay from Newtongrange, who has held the honour of winning the event for many years in the past, for the first prize of £1. 10/-. J. Hunter , Edinburgh was second and J. Duckworth, Edinburgh took third prize. The band occupied a stand on the Jed water side of the Park, and at intervals discoursed a fine selection of airs.

Velocipede riding became a very popular sport during Victorian times. A team of friends like the Borders Cycling Club pictured above would enter their most proficient and sturdiest representatives to compete in athletics cycling events such as those held annualy at Jedburgh Border Games in Lothian Park

On Games morning Saturday of 1881, as soon as the town clock had chimed the hour of six, the Jedforest Instrumental Band, under the leadership of Mr Robert Hope, started from opposite the Royal Hotel, and promenaded through a number of the town's proncipal thoroughfares. At the same time, the town bells sent forth a merry peel, while the small artillery piece which is used on these occasions sent forth its loudest tones from Lothian Park. Thus, Games Day was again commenced in the orthodox manner. The Quoiting matches were then proceeded with, and were finished shortly after 9 o'clock. The Games athletic events were commenced in the Park shortly after 10 o'clock. At that time the Jedforest Band marched down to the park, followed ofcourse by a large gathering of people who accept the Band's appearance as an indication that the business of the day was about to begin. The weather was exceedingly fine, and for a time the sky was almost cloudless. The only anxiety was the prospect of excessive heat for outdoor amusements. The Open Foot Race of 100 Yards excited considerable attention, with seven taking part, all bearing more or less a good reputation for speed. Two or three false starts were made. Ultimately, they got away well and kept closely together for half the distance. In the run home, however, they became foul of each other, and one of the competitors fell. W. Bowmont, St Boswells won by five or six yards. Second in was J. W. Thomson, Jedburgh and third place fell to E. Andrews from Edinburgh. W. Leithead from Jedburgh took first prize Putting the Light Ball of 6 Pounds with a throw of 78ft 4½ins. W. Rutherford of Jedburgh came second with a distance of 77ft 9ins. Putting the Heavy Ball of 21 Pounds was won again this year by A. Scott, Yetholm whose winning throw achieved 31ft 8ins. J. Scott of Spylaw took second prize with his best throw of 30ft. The Glasgow Cup, Handicap Flat race of 150 Yards was ran in 6 Heats. Four ran in the first heat which was an exceedingly close race. Bowmont of St Boswells running from 4 yards came in splendidly to win, though his lead position was vigorously contested by T. Simson of Edinburgh, who was running from 13 yards. The race finished all but a dead heat. Only Thomas Rennilson of Jedburgh off 15½ yards and W. Thomson of Jedburgh, running off 12½ yards ran in heat two. When Thomson was about half way round the course, and gradually making on his opponent, he slipped and fell which concluded the contest for first place. The third heat brought three forward. Thomas Michie, Jedburgh, running from 13 yards kept ahead the whole way, and showed at the finish that he was in good form. More than a match for the other two by coming in several yards in advance of scratch man A. Sutherland of Hawick. Walter Leithead of Jedburgh who ran off 16 yards was loudly cheered when he arrived first at the cord during heat four. Throughout the race, he maintained his one yard advantage over McVie, Jedburgh, by the excercise of uncommon physical power, which could be trained to still greater efforts. George Hogg from Ancrum who ran from a start of 10 yards, was a yard or so in front at the end of heat five, pressed hotly by E. Andrews, Edinburgh off 7 yards. The other two contestants were left considerably behind. A total of six ran out the sixth heat. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh running from 17½ yards, who had been somewhat excited at entering the course late ran hard for first position. But James Haig, Jedburgh, who had the advantage of a 22 yards start kept the lead to the end, winning by only a foot or so. Robert Knox of Jedburgh was loudly cheered when entering the ring for The Hop, Step and Leap competition. When his winning result of 46ft 6ins was declared, he was again loudly cheered while the band struck up 'See the conquering hero.' Mr Knox proposes soon to retire from such contests. Knox once again won the following event, The Running Leap with a jump of 19ft 5ins. A. Scott from Swinton took second place with a leap of 19ft 4ins. There were three entries for The Handicap Sack Race over two hurdles of 18 inches. Every now and then the runners came to the ground, which created great amusement. John Hogg of Ancrum who looked the all over winner came to grief a short distance from the winning post. Consequently, Walter Hogg, Ancrum took first place, leaving John Hogg in second, and J. McGuinness of Hawick in third place. Ten competitors showed for The 300 Yards Hurdle Race, and a capital start was made. W. Bowmont of St Boswells led the whole way, leapt the hurdles elegantly and was first home by two or three yards to collect his purse of gold. The second purse was taken by A. Sutherland, Hawick, and E. Andrews from Edinburgh came in third to claim the purse of silver. Eight entrants took the field for 'The American Prize' Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over five flights of hurdles 3 feet high. Bowmont of St Boswells kept himself in reserve over half the course, and then put on steam to head out into front position which he held untill the finish. J. Chapman, Broxburn came in a good second, with Thomas Rennilson from Jedburgh holding out for third place. The Games were resumed in the afternoon shortly before two o'clock. The band played from Abbey Place down to the park. There was a very large increase of spectators, and the sports were resumed with beautiful weather and the prospect of a very pleasant afternoon. Nine men entered for The Go As You Please singular test of physical endurance which is always watched with great interest. All of them made off at a lively pace, which gradually settled down to a more regular and steady rate of speed suited to the strain which a race of half an hour must entail. The number gradually reduced one after another as the racers fell out, until only three were left. These continued close together for some time until the third, John Craig from Swinton began to walk. James Dickson of Dalkeith stopped after doing thirty one circuits round the ring. The winner, Hume Craig from Swinton made another round at a pretty rapid rate, after which the race was brought to a close. The speed throughout was quite fast for the time during which this race continued. Six ran in the final of The Glasgow Cup, and this race carried a great deal of excitement. The final was extremely close with an all Jedburgh prize winners finish. James Haig took the victory honours, and first prize of the cup. Second prize of £1 was won by Thomas Michie, and the third prize of 10/- went to Walter Leithead. Six competed in The Three Mile Bicycle Handicap round the ring. As the scratch man W. Deans of Hobkirk passed one competitor after another on his way to the front, the cheers were deafening. Immediately after passing Alexander Middlemas of Duns, Deans fell off and was at once helped on to his bicycle again. Middlemas also fell off, and it was supposed that they had fouled. Only three were left in the ride and the excitement throughout was intense. The riding by Deans, the winner, for the power and determination displayed was much admired. Middlemas who started at 180 yards was winner of the second prize. William Simpson of Jedburgh, who started at the 290 yards mark took third prize. Four competed in the final of 'The Foresters Cup' Handicap Flat Race of 300 Yards. all the prize winners again being Jedburgh men. First in was Adam Tait to claim the trophy. Robert Knox arrived home in second place for the £1 prize, and the third prize of 10/- went to Thomas Michie. A very brave effort, and as one spectator remarked, "We seem tae be keepin' a' the handicaps at hame noo!" Only nine contended for 'The Tyneside Prize' Light Weight Wrestling Competition this year. The final struggle between James Thomson of Jedburgh and James Oliver of Hawick lasted for a considerable time, and it was for some time, dubious where the victory was likely to fall.Their wrestling was much admired by the genuine efforts put forth by these men, and for the science displayed by each of them. Thomson was the ultimate victor. Six ran in 'The Lothian Handicap' 800 Yards Flat Race confined to the Border counties. John hall of Jedburgh who ran from 30 yards was greatly cheered on passing the post first. Adam Tait from Jedburgh, with a start of 66 yards came in to take second place and John Hogg of Ancrum took third place from a start of 55 yards. Seven entrants ran in 'The Jedwater Prize' Two Mile Handicap Open Race. This race, being of a very exacting character, several of the competitors dropped out and in the end only the three prize winners were left. From a start of 225 yards, Michael Curran of Jedburgh scooped the first prize of £2. Second prize of 15/- went to Peter Kay from Newtongrange, who started from 100 yards. The third prize of 5/- was taken by R. Bird of Haddington who ran from a start of 40 yards. The Open Wrestling Competition was the next event on the agenda, with a total of £10 in prize money to be wrestled for. Sixteen competitors from both sides of the Border presented themselves for this event. The struggle in the final between John Pott of Jedburgh and W. Blair, Salport Mill appeared to be determined and was viewed with intense interest. When Pott threw Blair with decided power there was a loud cheer from the crowd. This was renewed when he threw him again to win the first prize of £5. Blair as runner up was able to claim second prize of £2. James Thomson of Jedburgh came third with a prize of £1 and the rest of the money was divided accordingly. The heats for 'The Edinburgh and Leith Plate' Handicap Race of 440 Yards were next run. This produced a five man final of Thomas Michie running from 25 Yards, Andrew Miller starting at 34 yards, Robert Robson who walked over to the final, Thomas Rennilson running off 20 yards, and James Tait starting at the 32 yards mark. All finalists were runners from Jedburgh. The Running Pole Leap was won with a best vault of 10ft 2½ins by J. Rush from Barrhead. W. Hogg of Ancrum took second place with his 9ft 10 ins leap. 'The Stobbs Castle Cup' One Mile Handicap confined to the Border counties produced a winner in Thomas Telfer of Jedburgh running off 160 yards. Several of the eight contenders fell out before the mile was accomplished, but the event lacked interest. The Running High Leap competition concluded with a tie for T. McDougal of Galashiels and E. Andrews from Edinburgh, both of whom leaped a best of 5ft 6ins. The final of The Edinburgh and Leith Plate, which is donated by Jedburgh lads and their friends living in Edinburgh and Leith and a £3 sum in gold was won by Andrew Miller. Thomas Michie was winner of the second prize of 15/- and third prize of 7/6d went to J. Tait. The 300 Yards Open Flat Race was a triumphant win for A. Sutherland, Hawick. Second home was Bowmont from St Boswells and third place fell to G. Mather from Kelso. Four contenders appeared for The Open Flat race of Half a Mile. Dalziell went out almost immediately, leaving D. Livingstone of Aberdeen as the outright winner, J. Chapman of Broxburn coming home in second place and J. Turner, the only other contender with third place. The final event of the day was The Dunion Prize, A Two Mile Flat Race and poor substitute for the original steeplechase of several years ago. The victory this year went to Livingstone from Aberdeen. L. Affleck, Rosewell was second in, and Peter Simson of Jedburgh third. The band occupied a covered in stand on the river side of the Park, and during the course of the day performed a number of selections, chiefly of a lively character.

The morning of 8th July 1882 was neither bright nor promising, and weather prophets who had assembled in the Market Place before six o'clock predicted rain during some part of the day. A slightly cold breeze that prevailed was more refreshing than unpleasant. A few minutes before the hour of six, Mr W. Waugh appeared bearing the Woolwich infant that was to proclaim the opening of the day's proceedings. This artillery piece, placed in the centre of Market Place, awakened the echoes and the inhabitants with a terrific roar from its capacious interior on the first stroke of 6.00am. The effort caused it to rebound a few yards in undignified manner, while the spectators laughed. Simultaneously with this demonstration The Jedforest Band led by Mr Robert Hope struck up a lively air opposite the Royal Hotel, the bells set forth their merry peel and the flag was hoisted on the tower of the stately Abbey. Four times in succession, the cannon proclaimed Games Day while the band marched through the principal streets of the town bringing the like joyous message to the local inhabitants. Rain began to fall shortly before ten o'clock, although the barometer had prviously been rising steadily. A steady blowing breeze, however, gave hope that a fine day might yet favour the Games. The Jedforest Band played their way down to the park a few minutes before ten o'clock and took their place on the stand provided for them. Probably deterred by the shower of rain, the public came forward to the ring slowly, but many of the most enthusiastic were detained witnessing the final ties of The Quoiting that had been continuing for several hours. Five entrants ran in The 100 Yards Open Flat Race. This was a good race with a win for G. Mather of Kelso with second place going to T. Michie, Jedburgh. The biggest surprise was that Bowmont of St Boswells did not take a place, although the struggle between Thomson, Jedburgh and Chapman, Broxburn who both tied for third place was marked and keen. Walter Lethead of Jedburgh was a good winner Putting the Light Ball of 6 Pounds with a throw of 77ft 4ins. George Fair from Galashiels was second with a throw of 76ft 8ins. Fair, excelled, however, with a winning throw of 33ft 11ins Putting the Heavy Ball of 21 Pounds. A throw of 33ft 5ins by John Scott from Kelso was good enough to take second place in this event. Three ran in the First Heat of 'The Glasgow Cup.' Adam Tait of Jedburgh running from 13 yards made a capital start, and although he kept well to the front from the first, the race was virtually his when a few yards of the course had been covered. John Little, Hawick running off 12 yards was second. Four came forward for Heat Two. David Hope of Jedburgh with a 14 yards start took the lead, and the positions did not change, except that J. Simpson of Edinburgh with a 12 yards handicap passed Patillo and came in a good second. The Third Heat was a two man affair between Charles Haig of Hawick running from 9 yards and John Hogg of Ancrum who was off 13 yards. Hogg stumbled at the start, and again half way over the course. In the end Haig had it all his own way. Heat Four was an excellent race between Mather of Kelso from the 4½ yards mark and William Ballantyne, Jedburgh running from 17 yards who won by a very short distance. Rennilson of Jedburgh lost ground in this race by making a bad turn at the corner of the stand. In the Fifth Heat, Michie of Jedburgh running off 10½ yards did not make a good start even though he was heavily handicapped against Thomas Oliver of Ancrum's start of 16½ yards. He simply could not gain sufficiently on his adversary, but came in an excellent second. Five contenders ran in Heat Six. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh ran splendidly from a start of 14½ yards to take the race. Second and third places were closely contested, culminating in second place going to Walter Leithead, Jedburgh who ran from 13 yards. The Running Hop Step and Leap ended in a victory for R. Hogg, Hawick with the winning leap of 45ft 1in. Adam Scott of Swinton took second prize with a 44ft 10ins effort. Swinton, however was good enough to take first prize in The Running Leap with his best of 18ft 11½ins. Second place in this instance went to Hogg of Hawick with his best trial at 18ft 10ins. An entry fee of 6d was charged for The Handicap Sack Race, once round the ring over two hurdles 18 inches high. This race created great amusement. Mr Turnbull, the chimney sweep was one of the competitors who succeeded in falling in a very funny fashion at every hurdle. He did not come in at the finish, but the winner was John Hogg from Ancrum. John Neil, Ancrum was second and John Oliver, Hawick third. In the course of the forenoon, the weather brightened up and warm sunshine shed its cheering influence on the gathering which began to increase rapidly. The final of 'The Glasgow Cup' Open Handicap Race of 150 Yards was a very exciting event. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh's victory was loudly cheered. The competitors kept in a cluster from the beginning, and little separated them at the end. Mather from Kelso was second. There was some dispute over third position which was settled by dividing the prize between A. Tait and D. Hope, both from Jedburgh. The Hurdle Race of 300 Yards should have been an interesting event, but was not. Four ran, but the fourth man retired and there was not much effort in the finish between first, Bowmont, St Boswells and second, Mather of Kelso. James Chapman, Broxburn was placed third. 'The Forester's Cup' Handicap was run in five heats. Heat One saw a two man contest between R. Ferguson, Jedburgh running from 35 yards and J. Simpson, Edinburgh starting at 14 yards. Simpson made good way upon his opponent who had a good bit of a start in the handicapping. It was an exciting race at the close with Ferguson sticking in most pluckily and winning by about a yard. James Haig, Jedburgh walked over from the Second Heat. Three ran in Heat Three. Thomas Michie, Jedburgh from a 19 yards start, passed Bryce when in front of the grandstand and kept well ahead till the close. James Tait, Jedburgh running from 23 yards also made on Bryce and reached the cord a short distance in front for second place. The Fourth Heat was also a walk over for T. Oliver of Ancrum. Heat Five presented a three man contest wher Robson of Jedburgh held front position for a time, but in the run home he was easily passed by Charles Haig, Hawick off the 13 yards mark. Haig finished the race himself. Four entrants came forward for 'The American Prize' Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over five fights 3 feet high. The hurdles were taken in good style where Bowman of St Boswells, whose chances were thought to be good, kept second place throughout the entire course. He made a spurt at he last, but was too late to overcome James Chapman, Broxburn who came in an easy first. Mather of Kelso was third.
Fine weather still favoured the sports when the Games were resumed at two o'clock. The band marched from the Royal Hotel to the park, where by this time a good assembly had arrived. The first event in the afternoon programme was an Obstacle Race introduced as a new item for the first time this year. With a course of twice round the ring, the first obstacle the runners had to meet was a row of flour barrels with the ends knocked out. They were next faced with a row of slanted bars over which they had to climb, and with the aid of a rope drop to the other side. A distance of about eleven feet. Their next obstacle was a bar fixed across the course about 18 inches above the ground under which they had to make their way with as much expedition as could be affected. The fourth obstacle was a maze of ropes, somewhat labarynth in its construction, and out of these it was their effort to negotiate as quickly as possible as its inticacies would permit. Mr Turnbull of the committee gave a preliminary performance among the obstacles which afforded a good deal of amusement. Seven entered for the race and several fase starts were made which afforded no little amusement. When they got away, three of the competitors got through the barrels very quickly, but others were retarded since there were seven men for six openings. The slanted bars were faced manfully, where the lower bar was not such a formidable obstacle for those who faced it deftly. The maze of ropes were got through chiefly by crawling under. A good deal of laughter prevailed while the race continued, but little excitement was abound as a great distance separated the competitors before they had been long on the course. First home to claim the winning prize of £1 was J. Dalziel, Dalkeith. Second prize of 10/- was awarded to J. Hogg, Ancrum, and the third prize of 5/- went to G. Mather of Kelso. 'The Tyneside Prize' for The Light Weight Wrestling Contest was next on the agenda. From an entry of fourteen competitors, the final rounds produced a match between J. Thomson of Jedburgh and Thomas Brodie from North Tyne. Over endeavouring to get the second hold, Thomson and Brodie spent about an hour and left the ring several times. The ultimate victory came to Brodie with two falls to one. J. Pender from Hawick was placed third. From the five placed in the final of 'The Foresters Cup' Open Handicap Flat Race of 300 Yards, the three who were placed had a vigorous run for their victory. Michie showed well till near the line, but evidently gave up hope of first place, and fell into third. The ultimate honours went to Thomas Oliver, with Ferguson running in a very close second. Five started the Go As You Please Competition just before four o'clock, while the Tyneside Prize was still underway. This race was reduced from half an hour to fiteen minutes this year to aleviate the tedium over such a long course. A moderate pace was ofcourse maintained at the beginning. An occasional spurt was made, but the runners again fell into their easy going style. James Dickson of Dalkeith was winner, having travelled the farthest distance in the alloted time. T. S. Ridell, Hawick took the second prize, and T. Firbairn, Kelso was third. Eleven competitors ran in The Lothian Handicap Flat race of 800 Yards confined to the Border counties, and the race had a fine appearance. The greatest enthusiasm prevailed during the lst round of the track but a good distance separated first, second and third prize winners. The winner was Thomas Telfer of Jedburgh, who ran from a start of 32 yards. Second home came William Ballantyne, Jedburgh who started from 65 yards, and third place went to James Tait of Jedburgh with a start from 34 yards. The Bicycle Handicap of Three Miles round the ring was ran in four heats due to the large number of entrants this year. Four came through to the final, and the same interest and enthusiasm prevailed as had throughout the preceding heats, with A. Anderson of Jedburgh (Selby Blair) being encouraged loudly at every stage. There was great cheering when Deans of Hobkirk caught Laidlaw of Hawick shortly after half of the course had been accomplished. in a later round, Laidlaw was side by side with Deans and outstripped him. Shortly after, Deans passed Laidlaw again while a constant round of chering was kept up. When Blair came in first from his 280 yards start the cheering was great, and the band struck up "See the Conquering Hero." Deans was second in from a handicap of 30 yards, followed by Laidlaw who started from 80 yards. This was admitted to be the best event of the day. In The Open Wrestling Contest, all the prize winners came from south of the Border. The final round produced a match between George Steadman from Drybeck and threw W. Blair of Saltport Mill twice in succession, therefore carrying off the winning prize. Third prize went to T. Brodie from North Tyne. 'The Jedwater Prize' Two Mile Open Handicap Race was a victory for Peter Kay from Dalkeith who ran from a handicap mark of 220 yards. D. Livingstone of Tranent was second from a start of 50 yards, and thrid prize went to Lewis Affleck of Rosewell who ran from 140 yards. First prize for The Running High Leap was shared between J. H. Temple, Hawick and Adam Scott of Swinton with equal leaps of 5ft 5½ins. 'The Stobbs Castle Cup' One Mile Handicap Race confined to the Border counties, with an entry fee of one shilling was won by Thomas Telfer of Jedburgh who ran from scratch. Second prize was taken by John Murray, Denholm running from a start of 90 yards. Robert Hogg, Ancrum who started at 140 yards took third prize. The Running Pole Leap winner was Walter Hogg of Ancrum with a best of 10ft 2ins. Second and third place were shared between Adam Scott, Swinton and J. H. Temple, Hawick who equalled with leaps of 9ft 10ins. Four ran in The 300 Yards Open Flat Race which was a very close finish between Bowmont of St Boswells, the winner, Mather of Kelso who was second and J. Chapman from Broxburn the third prize winner. The Dunion Prize Two Mile Race produced a winner in Livingstone from Tranent. Affleck, Rosewell was second and P. Kay, dalkeith was third. No prize was presented for the neatest costume, and the Games concluded about half past seven when the prizes, as usual were presented.

The morning wore a dullish grey aspect on Games day 1883, which sometimes betokens a day of fair and settled if not brilliant weather. Just as the clock was striking six, Mr William Waugh fired the cannon, which always modestly retires when it has done its duty on this celebrated occasion every year. Four shots were fired, one in the direction each of the main thoroughfares leading from Market Place. Simultaneously with the firing of the first shot, the Band under the leadership of Mr R. Hope, started from the Canongate on a march through the main streets as the town bells were rung, and a flag was hoisted on top of the Abbey tower. A few minutes after six o'clock, a larger number of people than usual proceeded to Lothian Park to witness the quoiting competitions. Attracted also by the cricket ball throwing which had something of the charm of a novelty, since it had been added to the programme of events for the first time this year. These two events took place from the early morning after 6.00am and were concluded at around 11.00am. As usual the Jedforest Instrumental Band marched from the Market Place to Lothian Park at ten o'clock and was followed by a crowd of those who were spectators of the athletics events during the course of the day. There was some difficulty in getting a good start for The 100 Yards Open Flat Race on account of the eagerness of the runners to get under way. Eventually a successfull start was made by the seven contenders, and George Mather of Kelso won by a foot or two from J. Hill, Edinburgh. A. Sutherland from Hawick was third. Walter Leithead of Jedburgh took first prize Putting the Light Ball of 6 Pounds with a winning throw of 76ft 9ins. W. Rutherford took the second prize with his throw of 70ft 6ins. Putting the Heavy Ball of 21 Pounds produced an alternative group of winners. First prize was won by John Scott, Kelso and his throw of 32ft 2ins. Second prize went to McDougall of Galashiels with a best throw of 31ft. Leithead of Jedburgh was the runner up in third place. Three ran in the First Heat for The Glasgow Cup Handicap event. Robert Brown of Jedburgh led off well, but failed on reaching the turning post. The race was won by Davis of Edinburgh running from 8 yards. Second place was taken by T. S. Riddell, Hawick from a 10 yards start. Five ran in the Second Heat, a good race, won by John Hogg, Ancrum from the 13½ yards mark. The Third Heat was a two man affair. George Mather from 2½ yards, made good way on his opponent Charles Haig of Hawick, who started from 13 yards, but just failed to catch him before reaching the cord. Three ran in Heat Four which was an excellent race and certainly justified the handicapping. They all finished within a few feet, with Walter Leithead taking the victory from his 14½ yards start. Three local men, Robert Knox, Adam Tait and A. Miller contested Heat Five. This was an exceedingly close race where Knox went through from a 13½ yards start. Five ran in the Sixth Heat which was won by W. Ballantyne, Jedburgh with an 18 yards start. Local man J. W. Thomson was an admirable second. James Haig of Jedburgh walked over to the final in Heat Seven. The honours in The Running Hop-Step-and-Leap went to R. Hogg from Hawick with a best attempt of 44ft 4ins. A. Scott, Kelso took second prize by reaching 42ft. Likewise, The Running Leap major prize went to Hogg of Hawick with a winning 19ft 4ins leap. Adam Tait, Jedburgh manged to hold second prize with a leap of 17ft 3ins. Five ran in The Handicap Sack Race. This event turned out to be a dead heat between J. Hogg, Ancrum and W. Miller, Hawick. The struggle was very exciting in consequence of the closeness of the finish. Both men tumbled over , immediately after reaching the cord. They agreed to divide the stakes rather than running the race over again. All seven contestants turned out for the final of 'The Glasgow Cup' 150 Yards Open Handicap. The race throughout was very exciting, with Leithead, who had been penalised by half a yard, giving the winner, William Ballantyne of Jedburgh, a heated contest. Leithead came a close second by a foot or so at the finish. Robert Knox was third. The novelty of The Basket and Stone Race which was introduced in place of an Obstacle Race this year, attracted a good deal of notice, but was slow and did not create much excitement. The purpose was to gather and carry 25 stones placed one yard apart through the course to the finish. The winner was D. Livingstone from Tranent. J. Dickson of Hawick came in second. The American Prize Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over five flights 3 feet high saw a field of four turn out. T. Chapman of Broxburn was an easy first, but the struggle for second place was an exciting race between G. Mather, Kelso and A. Sutherland of Hawick. Mather took the second prize, leaving Sutherland in third place.
A shower of rain had fallen during the Games interval, but at the resumption of the afternoon session the sun was shining brightly and the weather was uncomfirtably hot. The stands were completely filled, and the seats within the ring were also fully occupied. Only four entered for The Go-As-You-Please competition. For most of the time, the competitors went at a brisk pace. T. Telfer of Jedburgh led all the way and baffled all the efforts of J. Dickson of Hawick to catch him. In the allowed time of quarter of an hour Telfer, the winner had covered 2 miles and 1400 yards. The bewildered Dickson came in second, and A. Mattewson, Galashiels was third. At a quarter to three o'clock, every one present was startled by a loud crash from the open stand followed by screaming. It was at once apparent that a large part of the stand nearest the grand stand had fallen with all its numerous occupants. A Superintendent portaer and his staff, along with members of the committee were at once on the scene, and exerted themselves with prudence in rescuing the numbers of grown ups and children who had been thrown to the ground and entangled in the mess. The greatest fears were at first entertained that the consequences had been serious, and at first it cast a shadow of gloom over the Games. After a short investigation, it was ascertained that though the danger had been very great, few persons had sustained any serious injury. The people were all rescued in a few minutes. A small number of people had sustained minor injuries, and most were shaken and frightened, but luckily all had avoided any serious mishap. One little girl clung to a remaining beam, which she caught hold of as the stand fell, and to this she held on until assisted down. The stand fell inwards and some persons had a narrow escape from several beams that came down after the first crash. Dr Hume, who happened to be present, was on immediate attendance on the injured persons. The extent of stand that fell was very considerable and left a large gap. Means were at once taken to secure the remaining portion, which was safely used to the end of the Games. There were only three entries for The Bicycle Handicap of Three Miles Round the Ring. H. Greenwood from Spittal, the scratch man was first home to win the Gold appendage. Second, from a start of 140 yards was W. Laidlaw, Hawick who picked up a silver medal. Inglis, the third man, fell early and gave up the race. The Californian Prize Youths Handicap of 250 yards was ran in two heats. In the First Heat, Andrew Miller, Jedburgh, who started from scratch made good headway to the front, but failed to catch A. Oliver, running from a 32 yards start, by about three yards. W. Sharp running from 40 yards was second. Miller was by far the strongest runner, and had the distance been a yard or two further it is evident that he would have won this heat. Five ran in Heat two which was again watched with great interest. The winner was Thomas Miller from a start of 42 yards. A. Anderson was second from a start of 45 yards. The final concluded with a win for Thomas Miller. Second place went to Oliver, and Sharp was third. The Light Weight Wrestling Competition for men 9½ stones and under produced an interesting final between J. Morton, Carlisle and W. Waugh of Hundalee. Morton, the ultimate winner, was much admired and complimented for the fair and straight forward way he dealt with his opponents as well as his skill. There were seven competitors for The Lothian Handicap Handicap of 800 Yards. Three fell out before finishing the course, but then a severe contest then took place between Thomas Hush of Ancrum, off 40 yards and James Tait of Jedburgh running from 28 yards for first honours. Hush, on nearing the winning post made a spurt to catch Tait, but failed by about two feet. James Oliver of Jedburgh, running from 40 yards was third. The Foresters Cup Handicap Flat Race of 300 Yards was ran in six heats. From these, six finalists toed the line for the prizes given by members of the Court of Jedforest No. 5801 Ancient Order of Foresters. This was an exciting final with a close finish. A.Sutherland from Hawick, who walked over from the Fourth Heat was a good winner over James Haig of Jedburgh who ran from the 18 yards mark. J. Waldie of Hawick who started from 16 yards came in third. The Running Pole Leap produced a winner in Walter Hogg from Ancrum with a winning leap of 9ft 4ins. J. Hunter of Hawick was second with an 8ft 6ins effort. The Jedwater Prize Two Mile Open Handicap was a very exciting race, and closed amid great enthusiasm, with a win for Louis Affleck of Rosewell who started with an advantage of 80 yards. The scratch man, D. Livingstone, Tranent arrived home second, with Banks of Portobello, who had a 148 yards start taking third place. Four faced the starter for The 300 Yards Open Flat Race, which was a splendid one from start to finish. Winning honours went to A. Sutherland, Hawick. John Hill, Edinburgh came in second with Clark from Edinburgh following in a close third. The Running High Leap first prize went to Galashiels and T. McDougall with a 5ft 5ins successful attempt. J. Hunter of Hawick's 5ft 4ins. leap was good enough to claim second prize. All five contestnts from Five Heats walked over to the final of The Edinburgh and Leith Plate 440 Yards Handicap. The winner was J. Dalziel of Dalkeith from a start of 18 yards. Second in was George Mather, Kelso who started from 16 yards. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh was third from 15½ yards. The Tyneside Prize for The Wrestling Competition of 11½ stones and under produced an exhausting first round. The match between J. Thomson, Jedburgh and F. Brodie, North Tyne took long in settling the matter, which exhausted the patience of the onlookers. It was proposed to settle it with the toss of a coin, since the committe would not yield to allow them to continue wrestling it out. Brodie won the toss and went through. The final was contested by J. Kennedy of Egremont, the ultimate winner and R. Douglas from Newcastle, the runner up. The Stobs Castle Prize One Mile Handicap, confined to the Borders, with a handsome cup as first prize was won by John Halliday of Jedburgh. Halliday ran from 150 yards. Abram Mabon of Jedburgh was second, running from 160 yards. James Dickson, Hawick who ran from 2 yards did well to come in third from such a severe handicap. The Final of The Open Wrestling competition turned out to be a match between George Steadman of Drybeck and J. Potts of Jedburgh. The Englishman, and more experienced of the two was the ultimate victor, although Potts was told from the ring he had done "verra well," and this seemed to be the general opinion. The McKeesport Prize is a handsome silver cup, given by Jedburgh lads in McKeesport, California for a Handicap Race of 600 Yards confined to Roxburghshire. The winner was James Oliver of Jedburgh, running from 30 yards. T. S. Riddell, Hawick was second from a 30 yards start. Third was James Tait of Jedburgh who started at 17 yards. The 300 Yards Race confined to the Parish was won by T. Michie. Robert Knox took second prize, and James Haig third. Seven ran in the Two Mile Dunion Handicap, of which six kept well together. Dickson of Hawick went out in the second round. Dalziel from Dalkeith also had to stop for a time. The winner this year was Louis Affleck from Rosewell. Second place went to D. Livingstone from Tranent. Third place fell to our old favourite Peter Kay of Newtongrange whose triumphant wins at the Dunion Moor are now very much in the past. The sports finished at 7.15 pm and the takings from admission to the ring and the stands amounted to £57 which is about £3 more than last year.

According to use and wont, Games day of Friday 11th July 1884 was ushered in with the roar of artillery, the ringing of bells and the enlivening strains of instrumental music. A number of people were astir before six o'clock and began to congregate in Market Place, where the most interesting part of the opening ceremonies take place. This year, however, owing to the illness of a person residing in the Market Place, the artillery operations were considerately transferred to the Lothian Park. Precisely as the town clock struck six they were performed by Mr William Waugh and Mr Robert Murray in the presence of a few spectators. Also punctually at six o'clock, the Jedforest Instrumental Band started from the Canongate, and playing selections of music, marched through the principal streets of the town. A merry peel was at the same time rung on the town bells and a flag was hoisted on Jedburgh abbey. The Quoiting took place in the early part of the morning between six and ten o'clock while members of the committee were diligently involved in completing the arrangements, erecting flags and measuring distances for the handicaps. An unusually large number of spectators assembled at this hour to witness the play and the eagerness displayed by the spectators occasionally embarrassed the quoiters. Stewart of Kelso, one of the scratch men, played some excellent shots. The final, however, provided a winner in A. Lindores from Kelso who handicapped at 9 yards. Second prize went to W. Fairbairn of The Palace with a handicap of 13 yards. Third place awarded to T. Black from Kelso off scratch was decided by tossing. A great deal of rain had fallen in the course of the previous night and in the early morning the turf as quite soft. At six o'clock the weather was fair but not bright. A quarter before ten o'clock, the Jedforest Instrumental Band marched from Market Place to the Lothian Park. This is the signal for the commencement of the gathering of spectators to witness the principal events of the day. At this time the weather was bright and promising. The band was accommodated on a platform near the side of the river Jed, and here during the day it supplied excellent music. The first event on the programme was The Old Man's Race of 100 Yards for men not under fifty years of age. Five ran, and the race, of short duration was won by Thomas Waldie from Hawick, who collected a ham as first prize. Second and third prizes of silver scarf pins were won by T. Tissmeldon of Jedburgh and J. Dorrity of Jedburgh respectively. The Open Foot Race of 100 Yards was a capital event providing a winner in J. Hill from Edinburgh. Seven ran, and A. Miller of Jedburgh who looked clearly in first place from the start, lost ground by a wide sweep at the turn opposite the band stand to come home in second position. He was only behind by a few inches at the close and the third man, P. Telfer of Hawick was likewise, close at hand. The Melbourne Prize, a Handicap Flat Race of 500 Yards donated by Elliot Murray Esq. of Melbourne forwarded a field of seven entrants. The winner, A. Hope of Jedburgh, running from a 30 yards start made well to the front in the second round, but was more closely pressed towards the end by second man J. Waldie from Hawick off 16 yards, even though he won by several yards. W. Ballantyne of Jedburgh took third place from a 23 yards start. Putting the Heavy Ball of 21lbs went to John Scott from Kelso with a winning throw of 33ft 2ins. John Lauder of Cowbog claimed second prize with his best throw of 32ft 4ins. The Glasgow Cup Handicap Flat Race of 150 Yards was decided in seven heats. The first heat was a close run between winner J. Tait and J. Haig, both of Jedburgh. Robert Knox, of Jedburgh amid considerable cheering, passed R. Ferguson of Jedburgh on the home straight, and was several yards in front when he reached the cord to qualify from the second heat. Five ran in the third heat, and between J. Robertson of Jedburgh, J. Hogg from Ancrum and McGuiness of Hawick there was a good race. Robertson kept his lead well, and won by a yard or two. Three ran in heat four, which concluded, in an extremely close and exciting finish, ending almost in a dead heat with C. Haig from Hawick qualifying over W. Leithead of Jedburgh. In heat five only two local men ran. A. Millar of Jedburgh cleverly made up the start on his opponent, A. Tait of Jedburgh, and won by a yard. Heat six saw W. Rennilson from Jedburgh come finely to the front at the finish, where Oliver from Jedburgh stumbled a little near the end. Only two ran in the seventh heat, where G. Mather from Kelso gave up the race before the finish, giving a place in the final to J. Hunter of Hawick. The final was a capital race with W. Rennilson from Jedburgh coming home to take first prize splendidly from a handicapped start of 13 yards. Haig of Hawick running from the 10 yards mark took second place. Third prize went to A. Millar of Jedburgh who started off 2½ yards. The Running-Hop-Step and Leap competition was won by R. Hogg from Hawick with a winning combination jump of 46ft 8ins. A handsome silver cup donated by Mr W. B. Perry of Birmingham for the 200 Yards Handicap, confined to Jedburgh lads under 18 years of age was awarded to John Jones who had a start of 14 yards over second man Walter Innes who was handicapped from 8 yards. The Running Leap first prize also went to R. Hogg from Hawick with a best of 20ft 3ins. A Basket and Stone Race comprising 25 stones placed one yard apart produced an exciting and excellent finish. The three prize winners deposited their last stones within a second of each other. First prize went to Dickson of Dalkeith, second prize to Chapman from Broxburn and third to Gardner of Govan. Four ran in the Hurdle Race of 300 Yards for the traditional purses of gold and silver, donated by the ladies of Jedburgh. All took the hurdles cleverly and finished close together. The first purse of gold prize was won by A. Sutherland from Hawick. The second gold purse went to G. Mather of Kelso, and P. Telfer of Hawick won the purse of silver. At the close of this race about one o'clock, the Games were suspended for an interval of one hour.The Games were resumed at two o'clock under the most favourable auspices. The weather was bright and a favourable breeze was blowing.

Following the custom of previous years, the proceedings of Games Day in 1885 were commenced by the discharge of a miniature cannon in the Market Place at six o'clock. The cannon was discharged by Mr William Waugh, slater, precisely on the first stroke of six. Simultaneously the Jedforest Band struck up a lively tune, the town bells were rung, and a flag was hoisted on the turret at the top of Jedburgh Abbey. Already a number of people were congregated in the Market Place to witness the opening ceremonies. The morning was dull, but had a settled aspect that gave promise of favourable weather during the day. Shortly after these ceremonies, a considerable crowd assembled in the Lothian Park to witness the Quoiting and Cricket Ball Throwing, while the Games committee proceeded to complete their arrangements for the day's business. The Quoiting began shortly after 6 o'clock, and this year took place on the ground above the Games ring. The competition as started with six couples. The most interesting game in the draw took place in the first round between A. Lindores of Kelso and W. Fairbairn of Palace where Lindores came out ahead with 21 points to 14. The final was an all Kelso match with R. Turnbull taking first prize and W. Black second. G. Young from Cessford was placed third. Only one throw was allowed to each competitor in the Cricket Ball throwing competition. Leithead of Jedburgh was the scratch man who succeeded in throwing a distance of 103yds 5ins but the overall winner was Adam Tait from Jedburgh with a winning throw of 113yds 1ft and 3ins. J. Hope of Nisbet who threw 112yds and 3ins took second prize.
At ten o'clock the band started from the Market Place and marched to the Lothian Park, followed by a considerable number of people. At the park the gun was fired and in a few minutes, in the presence of a fair turnout of spectators, the Games commenced. The weather was warm though not bright. Competition began with wrestling for lads, a 100 Yards Footrace for Jedburgh boys under 12 years and a 100 Yards Footrace for Jedburgh lads under 16 years. Seven entrants ran in the Open Footrace of 100 Yards, and the race was viewed with much interest. T. Elliot of Sunderland, the winner of the Powderhall sprint in January this year, was an easy winner. A. Sutherland from Hawick took second prize and J. Hill of Edinburgh third. First prize for Putting the Light Ball of 6lbs was won by W. Leithead of Jedburgh with a throw of 76ft 3ins. W. Rutherford of Jedburgh took second prize with a throw of 69ft 8ins. Brunton, the scratch man in The One Mile Handicap Cycle Race made an unfortunate start, and R. Howie from Lanton with his 159 yards handicap start made a complete round before Brunton got mounted. Although the race was keen and exciting, the final placements came in the order in which they started as handicapped. Howie took first prize and R. Murray of Jedburgh came in second from a start of 130 yards. John Lauder from Cowbog took first prize Putting the Heavy Ball of 21lbs with a throw of 31ft 4ins. Second prize went to W. Leithead of Jedburgh with a best of 30ft 3ins. The Glasgow Prize Handicap Flat Race of 150 Yards was run in seven heats. The first heat was won by J. Waldie of Hawick from a start of 10½ yards over W. Duncan from Edinburgh who ran off 8 yards. John Hogg from Ancrum running from the 11½ yards mark took the second heat away from a close second, W. C. Wright of Edinburgh who started from 9½ yards. Heat three was closely contested by A. Sutherland of Hawick and Jedburgh's Walter Leithead. Sutherland was first to breast the tape from a 5 yards start after overtaking Leithead who handicapped from 11 yards. In the fourth heat, William Rennilson of Jedburgh, last year's winner, managed to secure a place in the final with a 10½ yards start from J. Hill from Edinburgh who handicapped from 6 yards. Thomas Michie of Jedburgh triumphed over Thomas Oliver of Jedburgh in heat five. Both local men handicapped from the 12 yards mark. Andrew Miller from Jedburgh the 1882 winner who was handicapped at 7 yards walked over into the final from heat six, and likewise, James Tait walked over from the last heat of the day. Tait's handicap was 14½ yards. The final was a close run race which could have fallen to anyone, however, Michie of Jedburgh came home in first place followed very closely by Tait and Sutherland. The two runners up were awarded a dead heat for second place. Hogg from Hawick took first place in the Running Leap with a jump of 18ft 6ins over Borland from Kilbarchan's 18ft 5½ins. J. Gilday from Galashiels was third. A Handicap Sack Race of once round the ring over two 18inch high hurdles was the next event. Five men entered, where Hogg from Ancrum was first home in a torn sack which allowed one of his legs to be free. An objection was lodged and the final decision was W. Millar from Hawick, the scratch man first prize. John Veitch of Jedburgh handicapped at 25yards, second place, and J. Neil of Ancrum off 19yards third. A. B. Storie took first prize in a Basket and Stone Race, where twenty five stones spaced 1 yard apart were to be picked up and carried to the finish line. Second and third prize was divided amongst other four, about whose positions there was some dispute. At the conclusion of this event, from a few minutes after one o'clock there was an interval of one hour. A sharp shower fell as people left the ground.
Shortly after two o'clock there were a large throng of spectators in the ring, and in the stands. The committee held a certificate from Dean of Guild Veitch in respect to the security of the stands. The weather when the Games were resumed was brighter than during the earlier part of the day, and showed promise of continuance. In the Go-as-you-Please competition, nine started but only four finished. The distance covered by the winner, P. Cannon in the allocated time of fifteen minutes was within a few yards of 3 miles. Six ran in the Hurdle Race of 300Yards, where all cleverly took the hurdles in their stride. A close finish gave the purse of gold first prize to J. Hill from Edinburgh. The purse of gold second prize went to D. Andrews of Edinburgh and the purse of silver fell to J. Dalziell from Dalkeith. The purses for this event were donated by the Ladies of Jedburgh. The Dunedin Prize, Open Flat Race of 400 yards, donated by Borderers in Dunedin was won by T. Elliot. Second was W. Duncan and A. Young from Falkirk came in third. An event of Bicycle Tilting in the Ring was devised so that each rider went around the ring twice and tilted at 8 small rings with spears. The number of rings speared and the time taken were the results considered, whereupon, in 1min. 9secs with seven rings lanced, Wm. Hall from Hawick was declared winner. Second prize went to G, Robson, Jedburgh with a tally of five rings in 1min. 11secs. For the American Prize, Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over five flights 3ft high, four took part, and the race was well contested. G. Bathgate, the ultimate winner passed Young of Falkirk only by a neck, within a yard of the tape. Whellan from Hamilton took third place. Wrestling for The Tyneside Prize, given by friends working on Tyneside and South Shields was vigorously contested by men from all areas of the Borders. Masters of the art, however, proved to be J. Simson of Carlisle, and G. Tweddle from London. In a skillfully fought final, the Cumbrian came out on top to pocket the £3 first prize. The Forester's Prize Handicap Flat Race of 300 Yards was hotly contested over five heats to give a final comprising of four Scots and an Englishman. E. Andrews from Edinburgh running from 11yards put in a fine performance to deservedly win the silver watch first prize, with Hawick man A. Sutherland, off 8yards, who walked over into the final coming second, and the Englishman, T. Elliot from Sunderland, who ran from scratch taking third place. The Running Pole Leap gave a first prize winning leap of 10ft to W. Hogg of Ancrum. Second place at 9ft 6ins was taken by R. Borland from Kilbrachan. W. Oliver from Jedburgh, who was much younger than the other two took third prize with a leap of 8ft 6ins. The Lothian Handicap Flat Race of 800 Yards, confined to the Border Counties was contested by twelve, all chasing the first prize of a handsome silver Lever Watch by Benson, valued at £5 5s and given by the most noble, the Marquis of Lothian. A most admirable race took place, where Wm Ballantyne of Jedburgh was well to the front all the way to take the winning prize. The other places were keenly contested, and gave James Oliver and James Tait, both from Jedburgh, second prize of £1 and third prize of 10sh. respectively. Three finalists competed in the Bicycle Handicap of 1½ miles Round the Ring. James Beattie Brown from Duns riding with a 140 yards handicap was declared the winner over W. Laidlaw of Hawick, riding off 40 yards, who took second place. Local Jedburgh man, John Robson who started with a 350 yards handicap lost considerable time when the seat of his machine became loose, and he had to stop for repair before he could re-enter the race. He made capital pace, and even with his loss of time, ran the second man a close race. seven ran, but only three finished the Jedwater Prize Two Mile Open Handicap. Armour kept close behind Afflick throughout, and attempted to catch him in the run home, but Afflick of Roslin , running off 50 yards was in good form and kept his place without much apparent effort. C. Armour of Loanhead, handicapped at 85 yards, came in second and P. Kay of Dalkeith, with a 135 yards start took third place. The Edinburgh and Leith Plate Handicap of 440 Yards was ran in six heats. The final produced an exciting event with W. Duncan from Edinburgh off 14 yards coming home first to claim the handsome £8 winning prize. Second in was J. Brown of Millerhill who started from 10 yards and picked up the 15shilling prize. The third prize of 7shillings and 6d went to J. Hill of Edinburgh who handicapped from 11 yards. The McKeesport Prize is a Handicap Race of 800 Yards confined to Roxburghshire with a handsome silver cup for the winner, donated by Jedburgh lads working at McKeesport, Pennsylvania. Six ran, but only the three prize winners finished. The cup went to J. Waldie of Hawick running from the 14½ yards mark. Second prize of 10 shillings was awarded to D. S. Riddell from Hawick, running off 14 yards. The third prize of 7 shillings and 6d went to Robert Row of Jedburgh who started at 28 yards. Telfer of Jedburgh was scratch man in the Stobbs Castle Prize one Mile Handicap Race confined to the Border Counties. He gave up after passing several of the competitors. The pace was good, but the finish was open, with the silver cup first prize going to Thomas Frater of Cessford, who ran from 180 yards. Second place and £1 went to Robert Hogg from Ancrum with a start of 170 yards. The third prize of 10 shillings was taken by James Oliver of Jedburgh who ran off 85 yards. The Dunion Prize Two Mile Race saw the winning laurels go to P. Canon who had won the Go as you Please competition earlier in the day. A. Young from Falkirk was second and Afflick of Roslin third. The Games concluded at about half past seven o'clock when the prize for the neatest costume was awarded to T. Sinton from Wooler. The Scots Own Pipers entertained with dancing and playing during the course of the day, and the Jedforest Instrumental Band played selections of music at various intervals.

Notwithstanding the many changes in customs of which we have experience, Jedburgh Border Games continue to hold a conspicuous and important place amongst the annual events in this locality, while their attraction for athletes of eminence, as well as aspiring youths within our own locality continues undiminished. According to use and wont, a small cannon was fired in Market Place at six o'clock, morning time. At the same moment, Jedforest Instrumental Band started from Canongate on a march through the streets of the burgh, a flag was hoisted at the top of Jedburgh Abbey, and the bells were rung. When these preliminaries had been duly observed, the considerable number of people who had already collected proceeded to Lothian Park, where preparations were being actively carried on by the committee for the business of the day. The weather was fine, and promised a good day. Shortly before ten o'clock, the Jedforest Instrumental Band marched into Lothian Park, followed by a large number of people. Since the arrangements had been completed by the committee, the Games within the ring were ready to begin. The signal for starting was fired at a few minutes after ten and the vents got under way. The Wrestling for Lads of 7 Stone and Under concluded with a final tussle between Thomas Lunn and John Kerr. Lunn was the outright winner. Eight entrants took their places in The Open Foot Race of 100 Yards, which was a fine spin. J. Hill of Edinburgh had the lead without any difficulty, but the other place takers just headed the crowd. E. Andrews took second place and J. Hardie was third. Both men were also from Edinburgh.The next event was a Handicap Bicycle Race of One Mile. On the first start, the ring was not clear, and W. Howie from Lanton ran against a person in mid ring, and went over the front of his machine. He remounted, but the race was stopped for a fresh start. Then a most exciting race ensued. W. Beattie of Jedburgh, the scratch man kept ahead to the end with admirable endurance. Howie first caught Murray of Jedburgh who then withdrew. His efforts to Catch Adam Smail from Jedburgh, who had a 20 yards start, however was less successful, as the younger rider repeatedly made ahead of him. Unfortunately in the second last round, Smail ran foul of a flag and fell over, and Howie who was close upon him, was brought to the ground by Smail's bicycle. Smail accomplished the remount with more alacrity than Howie, to gain second place. Beattie who started with a 30 yards handicap was far ahead by now and in first place. J. Ford from Ancrum took first prize in Putting the Heavy Ball of 21lbs with a best throw of 32ft 1inch, over William Rutherford of Jedburgh who threw 30ft 5ins.
The Glasgow Prize Handicap Flat Race of 150 Yards was ran in six heats. J. Waldie of Hawick came through to win the first heat from a handicap of 9½ yards. Three ran heat two, where W. Ballantyne of Jedburgh running off 12 yards made it a hot race for winner, Peter Swanston from Jedburgh, running off a 15 yard mark, who went through to the final. Seven ran in a close and exciting heat three to put T. Michie of Jedburgh through from a handicap of 10 yards. J. Aitchison of Jedburgh running from 18 yards was the outright winner of the fourth heat. Andrew Miller from Jedburgh cantered over the course as a walk over for heat five, when two others turned up, and insisted on their right to be in the heat, and that Miller should run again. Eventually he did so, and from his start of 8½ yards, he left the other two well behind, and was heartily cheered for his win. Four ran in the sixth heat, where T. Oliver running from 10 yards was evidently the favourite, but he just could not catch the victor, William Haig of Jedburgh, handicapped from 13½ yards, and had a struggle holding out for second place. The final was a splendid race. Aitchison of Jedburgh was well to the front all the way and a deserved winner of the £6 first prize. The other place takers were very much bunched together, and there was a keen and exciting struggle till the line was reached. William Waldie of Hawick was given second place and William Haig of Jedburgh third. The handicapping had been well done. The Winnipeg Prize of a handsome gold medal from Winnipeg in Canada was to be presented for a Half Mile event Confined to the Parish of Jedburgh. Eleven started this race, but half of the competitors retired before it had ended. T. Kerr, the limit man who ran from 80 yards kept a distance of 30 yards in front for almost all the way to finish in first place. A. Oliver came second from a 28 yards handicap and J. Halliday running from 45 yards was third. The Basket and Stone Race, where twenty five stones are spaced 1 yard apart and are to be picked up and carried in a basket to the finish line, was won by T. Telfer from Jedburgh. R. Matheson of Galashiels and P. Kay of Dalkeith were pronounced second equal. Seven ran in a Hurdle Race of 300 Yards for a purse of gold and two prses of silver given by the ladies of Jedburgh. A good race ensued, where J. Hill from Edinburgh looked likely to win, but was driven into second position by Martin of Halbeath who came hurtling down the home straight to take the gold prize. J. Oswald of Edinburgh took third prize. At the conclusion of this race there was an interval of one hour.
The Games were resumed again at two o'clock, in continuing fine weather. The attendance of spectators on the stands and in the ring seemed scarcely so great as was usually the case during the forenoon, but in the afternoon it was considerably increased. The Go-As-You-Please Competition, an event open to all to cover as much distance as possible in the time of Quarter of an hour was contested by a complement of six entrants, but only the four prize winners completed the time, leaving the other two to drop out at an earlier stage in the competition. The first three did their work pluckily and made a good race of it. The winner who covered the farthest distance to take 25 shillings was P. Cannon from Stirling. The 15 shillings second prize went to J. Wilson from Broxburn, and the third prize of 7 shillings and 6 pence was awarded to Robert Gardener of Govan. Wrestling for Men not exceeding 9½ Stone was contested from a total of twenty entries. After four rounds of knock-out, the final was contested between T. Wilson from North Tyne and R. Miller of Denholm. Wilson took the £2 first prize with two falls to one. The £3 first prize for the Dunedin Prize Flat Race of 400 Yards was won by J. Martin of Halbeath. Brown of Dalkeith and Duncan from Edinburgh took second and third prizes. A gold appendage was awarded to A. Smail from Jedburgh for the Bicycle Tilting Competition, who lanced eight rings in 1 minute and 52 seconds. The second prize of a silver appendage went to N. Elliot of Jedburgh who scored ten rings in a time of 1 minute and 54 seconds. The American Prize Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over 5 flights at 3ft was contested by six men. Several of them fell in taking the hurdles and considerable excitement prevailed. In the end Martin of Halbeath the winner came in well in front of Dalziel of Dalkeith, who in turn was well in front of Duncan from Edinburgh who took third place. Seventeen came forward to contest Wrestling for the Tyneside Prize for Men not exceeding 11½ Stone. After three knock-out rounds, a final was staged between J. Simson of Carlisle and A. Mackenzie of Edgerston. Mackenzie was odd man in two of the preliminary rounds, and only fought one round to reach the final. Simson, however, took the £3 first prize leaving his opponent with second prize of £1. The Foresters Prize Handicap of 300 Yards was ran in five heats. Heat one was taken by J. Cameron from Edinburgh off 11½ yards. The finish was very close with Cameron only getting ahead by a few inches before touching the cord. J. Hill of Edinburgh won heat two from a 10 yards start. A. Miller with a 13½ yards handicap walked over from heat three. D. Cummings from Innerleithen won heat four from a 12 yards handicap. J. Green off 9½ yards caught Michie of Jedburgh just on the post to win heat five. The final gave the win to Miller of Jedburgh with Cameron taking second place. Third place was divided between Cummings and Green. The Lothian Handicap Flat Race of 800 Yards Confined to the Border Counties offered a very handsome Lever watch valued at 5 Guineas as first prize. Eleven contestants ran. Bryce led for some time, but was caught byR. Hogg from Hawick running off 20 yards who kept the lead until the end, winning with ease. J. Tait from Jedburgh handicapped at 26 yards was second and A. Scott of Jedburgh, off 30 yards came in third. A Bicycle Handicap of 1½ Miles round the Ring was run in two heats. The final produced an exciting race where W. J. Grieve from Hawick won the event from a handicapped start of 120 yards. Second place went to W. Beattie of Jedburgh, riding from a 260 yards start. Gold appendages were awarded to both, and a silver appendage was awarded to J. Beattie Brown of Duns who took third place. The Edinburgh and Leith Plate Handicap of 440 Yards was not closely contended in the final event. J. Martin the scratch man from Halbeath showed some capital running during his heat but retired early during the final. The winner, J. Brown of Dalkeith who ran off 10 yards, second placed W. Duncan from Edinburgh off 11 yards and J. Green of Edinburgh running from 3 yards were widely separated providing a relatively uninspiring finale. A grand total of thirteen entrants came forward for the Stobs Castle Cup One Mile Handicap confined to the Border Counties. By the time the event reached the last lap, this number was reduced to five. John Halliday of Jedburgh who ran from 120 yards kept his ground from a good lead, and although hard pressed by Robert Dickson from Jedburgh who started from 80 yards, came in first by several yards amidst loud applause from the crowd. Dickson was second from J. Hall from Earlshaugh who took third place from a start mark of 150 yards. A 300 Yards Open Flat Race was decided with first prize of £1 going to J. Hill, second prize of 10 shillings to J. Cameron and 5 shillings to W. Davis, all men from Edinburgh. The Jedwater Prize Two Mile Open Handicap and the £2 first prize was won by P. Cannon from Stirling. P. Kay from Dalkeith came in to take the 15 shillings second prize, and five shillings for third went to A. Matheson from Galashiels. The events ended about half past seven o'clock. The weather throughout had been most favourable, making Jedburgh Border Games once more a success. The masters King, sons of the Rev. James King M.A. vicar of St Mary's at Berwick upon Tweed provided great enjoyment with their Highland dancing and danced with great elegance. The music was provided by the Hawick pipers. The Jedforest Instrumental Band occupied a stand at the upper end of the circle which was admitted to be a very great improvement to their old position.

	This photograph which was taken at Lothian Park in 1887 shows wrestlers, committee members and highland dancers and is probably one half of a panorama, of which the other half would have contained the cyclists and field athletes.

As usual, the managers submitted an attractive programme for this annual sporting occasion. This they were enabled to do, not only by the subscriptions they collected, but by the generous contributions of the Marquis of Lothian who provided the prize for The Lothian Handicap. Sir W. F. Elliot, who gave the handsome silver cup as the Stobs Castle Prize. The ladies of Jedburgh who supplied purses of money for the Hurdle race, Borderers in Dunedin who donated the Dunedin Prize. Borderers in Middleton and Borderers in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. J. Amos esq. in California who provided the handsome California Prizes of a 10 dollar, 5 dollar and 2½ dollar gold piece. Adam Rennilson esq. of Silverton who sent a gold nugget. Mr W. B. Perry in Birmingham. Jedburgh lads in Edinburgh and Leith, and members of the Court Jedforest Ancient Order of Foresters and others. Precisely as the town clock gave the first stroke of six o'clock in the morning, Mr William Waugh fired a small cannon in the Market Place, to the disturbance of the slumbers of some of the good citizens. Four shots were fired in the direction of the cardinal points without damage to person or property. Also, on the stroke of six, the Jedforest Instrumental Band and the Jedburgh Flute Band started on their tours through the principal thoroughfares, the town bells sent forth a merry peal, and a flag was hoisted at the top of the venerable abbey tower. There were already a number of people assembled, and when the opening proceedings were scrupulously carried out, the people repaired to the Lothian Park. The competitions began immediately with the Quoiting Handicap for which 24 came forward and played their ties. The attendance of spectators was not quite so large as on some previous years, perhaps due to the fact that the morning threatened rain and several showers fell. Before eight o'clock, however, the sun came out, and shone brightly, and a slight breeze moderated the heat. The quoiting terminated at 9.50 am with a win for T. Walker from Sprouston over A. Simson of Swinton. At the beginning of the game, Walker speedily made up Simson's start of 7. Up to 18 both played well, but after this, Simson did not score.
The Games resumed shortly after 10 o'clock in brilliant weather. The field had a very gay appearance. All the stands and offices were decorated with flags, and there was an unusually large display of refreshment stands. The two bands played from the Market Place down to the competition ground, where the spectators gathered somewhat slowly. The competitions at this time opened with Wrestling of 7 Stone and under for Lads. There was an exceptionally small entry, and the only interesting tussle was between John Kerr and John Thomson of Jedburgh. Kerr took the 7 shillings and sixpence first prize. The Open Foot Race of 100 Yards took place on the straight with an entry of six contenders. John Jackson from Hawick took the first prize of 15 shillings from T. W. Jones of Bingley by half a yard. The 200 Yards Handicap confined to Jedburgh Lads under 18 Years brought forward six contestants to compete for a handsome silver watch given by Mr W. B. Perry in Birmingham. J. Lumsden from a 3 yards start led for a long way, to push another yard ahead of the rest in a well deserved win. The next three were alsmost abreast, with T. Anderson running off 6 yards taking the 10 shillings second prize, T. Lunn off 1 yard had to be content with third prize of 5 shillings. John Ford from Ancrum came forward to Putt the Heavy Ball of 21lbs for a distance of 34ft 2ins and claim first prize of 10 shillings from John Jackson of Hawick who threw 31ft 6ins. The Glasgow Prize Open Flat Race Handicap of 120 Yards had been reduced in distance by a significant 30 yards for this years competitions. From a 16 yards handicap, W. Michie of Jedburgh took the first Heat, finishing three yards in front of the other five runners. Heat two went to T. Murray from Hawick running off 15 yards. Four ran in Heat three. R. Smail (R. S. Robertson) from Jedburgh running from a 16 yards start led all the way and finished two feet in advance of the others. Six ran in Heat four, where J. Waldie from Hawick off 9½ yards came home easily as he neared the tape and won by three yards. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh was well in advance of the other four in Heat five when he reached the finish, and still had plenty of 'Go' in him. In Heat six, Thomas Middlemist of Jedburgh who ran from 18 yards was hard pressed to a win by Leithead who started from 15½ yards and wiped 2 yards off the winners lead at the finish. From a field of four in Heat seven, James Tait of Jedburgh came in from a 14 yards start to win by a yard. While the heats were being run, the leaping and jumping events were also being contested in the centre of the arena. Four came forward for the Handicap Sack Race once round the ring over two sets of hurdles 18 inches high. W. Miller of Hawick, the scratch man cleared off the heavy starts at an early stage in this race and came in an easy winner from J. Hogg of Ancrum who started from 14 yards, and third placed John Veitch of Jedburgh, running from 31 yards. The Final of the Glasgow prize excited great interest. In the vicinity of the dressing tent, where the bookmakers had established themselves, the excitement was greatest and a considerable amount of business was done. The final was run against great speculation and excitement, and was a splendid race with a deserving win going to R. Smail (R. S. Robertson) from Jedburgh. Andrew Miller of Jedburgh was second and T. Middlemist of Jedburgh third. The prize winners were separated by only a few inches. The Basket and Stone Race, where twenty five stones are spaced 1 yard apart and are to be picked up and carried in a basket to the finish line, was won by Storie from Hawick this year. Temple of Galashiels came second and Kay from Dalkeith third. At one o' clock there was an adjournment for dinner.
The Games were resumed shortly after two o'clock. The weather was still fine, and the attendance was large. Amongst the spectators during the course of the day were Sheriff Speirs, Provost McDougall, Mr Wm. Riddell junior of Hundalee, Mr Thos. Smail, Dr Hume, Mr T. S. Smail, Mr Wm Thomson and Mr James Veitch of Inchbonny. The first event after the resumption was the Go-as-You-Please Competition open to all for a period not exceeding 10 minutes. Seven entered and began at a lively pace. Before a couple of rounds of the circuit were complete, two had already dropped out. A third fell out after 6 minutes. P. Cannon from Stirling, the champion 5 mile runner was the winner by a lap and a half, and was loudly cheered as the time bell was rung. C. Armour and L. Affleck, both from Loanhead took second and third prizes respectively. Six entered the Hurdle Race of 300 Yards to compete for the purses of gold and silver provided by the ladies of Jedburgh. T. W. Jones of Bingley led all the way and won by a few yards. There was a tough struggle between Martin from Halbeath who took the second prize and Duncan from Edinburgh in third place who were only separated by a foot. The Light weight Wrestling for Men not exceeding 9½ Stones took place in five rounds producing a final between W. Richardson of Hawick and J. Hogg of Ancrum. Richardson proved to be the more experienced man taking the £2 first prize. The American Prize Hurdle Race of 500 Yards over 5 flights three feet high took place with a resounding win for Martin of Halbeath, a first rate hurdler and regular annual participant at the Games. Duncan from Edinburgh was second and Dalziel of Dalkeith third. The Bicycle Handicap of 1½ Miles Round the Ring brought forward a complement of five keen competitors this year to tussle for the two gold and one silver appendages. Porteous of Hawick fell at the half way stage and had to ride the remaining distance at considerable disadvantage on a damaged machine. A. W. Smail of Jedburgh who handicapped from 180 yards, rode well and was a good first. W. Beattie from Edinburgh who started from the 160 yards mark came in second and Howie of Lanton from 150 yards was third. The Tyneside Prize Wrestling for Men not exceeding 11½ Stone brought twenty seven entries forward. During the second round, P. Hush of Jedburgh and J. Smart of Lethem had two dog falls. A situation arising where both men go down at the same time, and so the fall is disqualified and must be started again. R. Miller from Denholm had a severe struggle with J. Ainslie of Broombaulks and a tough finish which also included one dog fall. In the fourth round, Smart and Miller wrestled for third and fourth place when Smart eventually threw his opponent. An exciting final then took place between J. Thompson of Jedburgh and James Hall from Earlshaugh. Hall took the prize of £3 leaving Thompson in second place with a prize of £1. The Foresters Cup Handicap Flat Race of 300 Yards was run in four heats. Heat one was contested between three runners and won by R. Smail (R. S. Robertson) of Jedburgh. The other two dropped out before the finish. Two came forward for Heat two, where the victor, J. Waldie from Hawick kept ahead by two yards until the finish. In the Third heat, James Tait of Jedburgh made it through from D. Mitchell of Hawick, who had pressed Tait closely for part of the way, but yielded before reaching the line. Five ran in Heat four where James Oswald of Edinburgh got within three yards of the winner, A. Miller from Jedburgh, but failing to catch him as he neared the goal, gave up the race. The other three had already retired. Smail was pulled four yards for the final of this race on account of winning the Glasgow prize, but not withstanding this, he came in a capital winner two yards ahead of Tait to win the silver watch donated by the Court Jedforest No. 5801 Ancient Order of Foresters. During the Wrestling For Men not exceeding 15 Stones a dog fall occurred between J. Thomson of Jedburgh and John Ford of Ancrum during the second round. This caused great excitement among their backers, where the Ford supporters contested the judge's decision. When Thompson threw Ford in the second trial, there was a good deal of hissing and cries of 'Put him out!' J. Potts of Jedburgh put J. Hall of Earlshaugh down in the final with apparent ease to take the first prize money of £4. Thompson and G. Ainslie of Broombaulks divided third prize of 15 shillings. The Running Pole Leap produced a sensational jump of 10ft 2½ins for Walter Hogg of Ancrum, the highest that had ever been recorded at Lothian Park, and secured a hearty cheer from the crowd when announced. The California Prize Handicap Race of 350 Yards confined to youths of Jedburgh under 20 years of age produced a line up after four heats of R. Thomson running from 33 yards, J. Jacks running off 24 yards, A. Scott handicapped from 16 yards and J. Yellowlees from a mark of 20 yards. Yellowlees pressed Thomson very hard at the close, but failed to catch him by a yard and a half. Scott came in to take third place. The Lothian Handicap Flat Race of 800 Yards turned out to be a well deserved victory for R. Dickson of Jedburgh from a start of 34 yards. Dickson, from a field of fifteen came home to take the first prize of £4. J. Halliday of Jedburgh who ran from 42 yards kept the lead for a bit, but was passed in the latter half of the last round, and failed by half a yard to take third place. Second prize of £1 went to A. Oliver from Jedburgh who ran from 20 yards and came in three yards behind Dickson. Third prize of 10 shillings was awarded to third man home, J. O. S. Oliver of Jedburgh who started from the 30 yards mark. The Australian Prize Handicap Race of 300 Yards confined to Jedburgh offered for a first prize, a nugget of gold and 10 shillings in cash. Ran in four heats the final brought forward John Aitchison from Jedburgh from the first heat running from 19 yards. A. Miller running off scratch, who walked over from the second heat. T. Middlemist off 19 yards, the contender from heat three, and W. Haig from a start of 18 yards, who walked over from the fourth heat. After a thrilling race, Aitchison took the first prize, Miller was second and Haig did not run. Middlemist did not run in the final. The final of the Edinburgh and Leith Plate Handicap of 440 Yards produced a win for J. Oswald from Edinburgh. Second place went to A. Duncan of Edinburgh. J. Brown of Dalkeith was awarded third place. The Stobs Castle Prize One Mile Handicap confined to the Border counties offered a handsome silver cup given by Sir W. F. A. Eliot Bart of Stobs and Wells as first prize. This was awarded to A. Oliver of Jedburgh who ran from a 34 yards start to win the event. T. Telfer from Jedburgh who ran from scratch came home second to win £1, and third prize of 10 shillings went to J. Hall from Earlshaugh who ran from the 90 yards mark. Ten started the Dunion Prize 2 Mile Race including several local peds. P. Cannon from Stirling who led by more than a lap came home to take the first prize of 30 shillings. Armour from Loanhead was second home, and his colleague L. Affleck of Loanhead came in third. Only six completed this race. The Games concluded at 7. 53pm. At intervals during the day, the Masters King danced reels strathspeys and hornpipes to the immense delight of the spectators. Their performances were heartily cheered. Music was supplied by pipers of the Depot King's Own Scottish Borderers of Berwick upon Tweed. The Jedforest Instrumental Band and the Jedburgh Flute Band were on the ground throughout the day, and added to the enjoyment by discoursing excellent music. The prize for the neatest attire was awarded to T. Jones, Bingley.

On Saturday morning 14th July last, punctually at six o'clock the good citizens of Jedburgh were certified that the Games day had arrived by the peculiar ceremonial so long associated with the opening proceedings. Mr Wm Waugh, whose puncuality and activity are features of the occasion was in Market Place with a considerable crowd of onlookers, before six o'clock ready with his piece of ordnance to honour the occasion with his salute of four guns. When the hour of six struck the first shot was fired, the Jedforest Instrumental Band and the Jedburgh Flute Band started to march through the streets, a flag was hoisted at the top of the Abbey tower and the clock tower bells were rung merrily. All the points of the ceremonial were fulfilled. The the committee proceeded to the Lothian Park to give the finishing touches to their arrangements. The public, also interested in the game, repaired to the park to witness the Quoiting Competition. In this game 21 competitors put in an appearance and played. Great interest was shown in the game between G. Bryce of Jedburgh and G. Turnbull of Jedburgh which attracted most of the spectators. The partisans became loud in their encouragement. The game was very close and some fair play took place. There were also close games between Hush and Robertson and Beattie and Lauder. The final brought an exciting conclusion with a the title going to G. Broomfield of Swinton who beat W. Scott from Morebattle by 21 points to 17.

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