In the winter, when there was but little doing in the fields, we organised running matches. (John Muir. The Story of My Boyhood and Youth, 1912)
The natural expanse of sandy beach, woodland paths, sand dunes and well tended greens and bunkers have provided an ideal setting for sports enthusiasts of all ages.
Riding guides and permits have been issued for many years to both individual riders, local stables and schools from as far afield as the Scottish Borders and Central Scotland. By the early 21st century over 700 recreational permits had been issued to horse riders.
John McCall a former Yeomanry trooper carried on the tradition of horse training on the sands in the early 1900s. Both his sons became jockeys. The family’s success from Tilton stables was continued under the Boyd family, George Boyd being the first Scottish trainer to win at Newmarket. Tom Craig his nephew continued the business into the 21st century.
Golf enthusiasts played on the links at Hedderwick Hill Golf Course, laid out by St Clair Cunningham in the early 20th century.
Canoeing, orienteering, sailing and more recently blow-karting are just some of the activities offered to schools by East Lothian’s Outdoor Education department.
Surfing in the area began in the 1960s at Pease Bay and by the early 21C had spread around the south east coast. The rolling waves at Belhaven Bay offered ideal conditions all year round with plenty of space for beginners.
By the end of 2005 Dunbar had its first surf shop and a surf school offering both lessons and a summer activity programme. Surfing also joined the list of activities at the local Grammar School. Belhaven Surf Club was also formed that same year.
For years locals and visitors have fished for both white fish and flounders. Many recall tramping with their bare feet in the shallows, searching for flounders, ready to spike them with a sharp stick.
East Coast winds proved ideal for a relatively new sport when kiters took to the sands in the early 21st century. Local enthusiasts known as ‘East Lothian Wind Chasers’ began to use three wheeled buggies or simple four wheeled boards and joined the Scottish Parakiting events on the east coast.
Sport on the beach took on a faster pace in the 1960s. Sand yachting took off and locals could also be found racing along the sands for East Lothian Amateur Stock Car Club. More recently, sled dog racing has taken place.
When the East Lothian Orienteers began in 1981, Hedderwick Hill became one of several local sites and one of the larger areas used for events.
A permit system for wildfowlers has operated from the early days.
