Big crowds turn out for big men at Inveraray Highland Games
TWO big men grabbed the headlines at Tuesday’s Inveraray Highland Games.
Kentish competitor, Scott Ryder, won the George Hotel- sponsored World Caber Championships for the third year running at the Winterton - but this year he had to share his crown with giant Pole, Sebastian Wenta, after judges were unable to split the two.
It was an exciting end to a day that began rather less aus- piciously, with heavy rain falling on saturated ground in the early hours. Things, as they say, dried up and the sun came out for much of the afternoon.
The rain left a legacy behind of mud - and wellies were the order of the day while motorised assistance stood by to help vehicles from the soggier corners of car parks. The traditional grand opening
parade was a sight to behold. With the Duke of Argyll at its head,the parade was led by Inveraray and District Pipe Band and 5 Scots Balaclava Company from the parish church to the Winterton.
As the day’s events unfolded, a crowd of around 5,000 created an atmosphere that buzzed with excitement.
Spectators at the friendly and vibrant event had plenty to choose from - the heavy athletics, Highland dancing, athletics, a full heavy event programme, cycling and Scottish backhold wrestling to high quality local food, sideshows and the fun of the fair.
The solo piping set new records, with more than 110 entries and an extra performing platform and judge just to cope with numbers. The Grade A piobaireachd was won by Angus MacColl of Benderloch. In a 35- strong Grade B piobaireachd competition, Graham Mulholland from Dunkeld lass Sarah Muir in third place. The Leslie Craig Kiltpin was this year awarded to the Grade C piobaireachd winner, and it went to Callum Wynd of Dunblane.
In the arena, soldiers from 5 Scots Balaclava Company - formerly the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders - got stuck into many of the day’s athletics events. Even enjoying themselves immensely.
Supported by main sponsors, Loch Fyne Oysters and Clan Campbell Scotch Whisky, this was another successful Inveraray Games.
Convenor Alasdair Chrystal said: ‘It’s been another fantastic day. The numbers who came along have been great, the very happy with how the day has gone.’
He added: ‘I would like to thank the many volunteers who help put at this event year after year. Thanks as well to all the competitors and exhibitors, and not forgetting our sponsors for the event.’