Sport
6 January, 2026
70 m men’s sash fits Jared like a Glove(r)
In the space of less than eight seconds, Jared Glover placed his name in the Highland Gathering history books, winning the 70 m men’s final in 7.781 seconds.
After finishing the 2024/25 campaign with some strong performances at the Stawell Gift, including a second-place finish in the men’s 70 m, Glover has been in some exceptional form so far this season, but hasn’t been rewarded with a victory.
After recording the fourth fastest time in the heats with a victory in heat one, Glover was once again in contention for the sash.
With a second-placed finish in the second semi-final behind Owen de Vries, which allowed him to advance, Glover strided ahead of Corey Williams in second and Fraser Stott in third to come out victorious in the final.
Previously finishing third in this event last year, Glover said it was rewarding to secure his maiden victory at an event he has always enjoyed.
“It’s awesome really, it’s one of my favourite spots to run, it’s a great way to start the year,” he said.
“Being the start of the year is always cool, there is always an amazing atmosphere with the carnival, the rides and the highland games.”
According to Glover, the camaraderie of the event can spill onto the track, especially when racing against some good friends.
“I had a couple of mates in that race and they are awesome quality athletes and everyone ran awesome, I'm just thankful that I get to run against these boys,” he said.
Despite his recent string of startling sprints, Glover said he didn’t enter the Highland Gathering expecting to leave with a victory.
“I expected to make the final, but I was like, if I make the final, I’m happy with that,” he said.
“Right before the final, my coach came up to me and said I think you have got a good chance at this.
“It was unexpected. I came here thinking I would have a good run and here I am, so it’s really nice.”