🥴 Oddballs 25: Ullapool’s Most Gloriously Unhinged Tradition Returns

Photo Credit: Abigail Gourley

If you thought Ullapool was just about serene lochs and tasteful knitwear, think again. On August 16th, the village transformed into a Lycra-clad, trivia-fueled, three-legged extravaganza known as Oddballs 25—and it was everything you never knew you needed.

🦑 What Even Is Oddballs?

Imagine a pub quiz. Now imagine doing it while physically tethered to another human being. In costume. While parading through the village streets. That’s Oddballs: Ullapool’s annual three-legged fancy dress pub crawl quiz, where dignity goes to die and community spirit soars.

This year’s event was especially poignant, held in memory of Stefan Mauger, a beloved local football captain. Proceeds went to the Teenage Cancer Trust and the Ullapool Garden of Reflection, proving that even in the midst of chaos, Ullapool knows how to honour its heroes.

🧜‍♀️ The Fashion: Haute Mess

Costumes ranged from Mario Kart characters to Oasis and Kizz.

🧠 The Quiz: Pints & Puzzles

Each pub hosted a trivia challenge, which participants attempted while navigating the existential crisis of being tied to someone who thinks the capital of Canada is “Maple Syrup.” Questions ranged from local lore to “Name That Sheep Breed,” with extra points for correct answers and surviving the round without spilling your pint.

🏃‍♂️ The Race: Legs, Laughter, Legacy

The race kicked off at the top of the hill by the clock tower, with registration starting at 6pm and the chaos commencing at 7pm sharp. Spectators lined the streets, cheering on the wobbling duos like it was the Olympics - if the Olympics involved glitter, questionable footwear.

💖 Why It Matters

Oddballs isn’t just a night of hilarity - it’s a celebration of Ullapool’s heart. It’s about resilience, remembrance, and the kind of community that shows up in costume to raise money and spirits. Whether you were racing, cheering, or just wondering why a man dressed as a lobster was arguing about 1980s pop hits, you were part of something beautiful.