A man has been tragically killed in a freak hammer-throwing accident at a Highland Games event in the Netherlands on Sunday.
According to witnesses, the 65-year-old victim was not a spectator at the Open Highland Games, held at Geldrop Castle. He was reportedly walking in the castle gardens when the unseen 22lbs metal ball was accidentally thrown over the hedge in competition and killed the man instantly.
Emergency services, including a trauma helicopter, rushed to the scene but the victim could not be saved. One witness told local news outlet Omroep Brabant: “The pendulum dropped, we saw the ball go over the hedge and then we heard a woman screaming very loudly.
“It wasn't a spectator ... so he didn't see the ball coming at all.”
The hammer throw is a traditional feature in the ancient Scottish games where competitors swing the metal ball around their head before launching it as far as they can. The hammer equipment comprises of a wooden pole with a metal ball - that usually weighs 22lbs for men and 16lbs for women - attached.
Spectators watched the horrific scenes occur and the event was quickly suspended after the incident. The athlete who threw the fatal hammer was experienced and, according to reports, ‘a top player who had already participated in big competitions before’.
Speaking to local media, Adri Geerts, the chairman of organisers Foundation Village Marketing Geldrop-Mierlo spoke of his shock at the events. He said: “We are flabbergasted that something like this can happen.
“You don't expect it, it's the biggest disaster that can happen to all of us. We're devastated. I felt super excited about the event and all the people who were there.
“That someone then dies due to an accident, that makes me super sad.”
Geerts said competitors were distraught and were already receiving help from victim support. On the athlete who threw the wayward hammer, he added: “I haven't spoken to him myself, but he's completely beside himself, this should never have happened to him.
“They are players who practice this game internationally at a high level and with a lot of experience and are extremely experienced, but then apparently an accident can happen.”
Deputy Mayor Hans van de Laar said: “We are all very affected by this terrible accident. Our condolences go out to the bereaved families.”
The police are yet to identify the victim and continue to investigate the incident, including why such an unfortunate incident occurred during a major games.
