Barry Martin began playing shinty at the age of 16 with Bute Shinty Club. He joined the club’s committee in 1979 and has remained a member for 46 years, serving as club president since 2000.

He played for Bute Shinty Club until 1988, when a cruciate ligament injury forced him to retire from playing, following medical advice. Determined to stay involved in the sport, he took up refereeing, officiating at all levels from junior matches to international fixtures.

After roughly 10 years as a referee, he transitioned into team management, leading Bute Shinty Club to several cup finals, including the Balliemore Cup and the Celtic Cup, and guiding the team to the Premier League.

He played a key role in the planning and construction of various stages of Bute Shinty Club’s new clubhouse and was instrumental in transferring ownership of the club’s pitch from Bute Estate to Bute Shinty Club.

A time-served blacksmith, Barry co-founded Bute Blacksmith alongside his brother Duncan in 1981. The business later expanded with the acquisition of Gilchrist Steel. Now semi-retired, he has recently taken a step back from the company.

He has been a longstanding committee member of Bute Highland Games, which were originally organised under the auspices of the Bute Shinty and Athletic Club.

Barry looks forward to working with all board and staff members of the Camanachd Association.