High times and holidays

Youngsters reached dizzy heights at the Glengarry Games last weekend. Erin McLean and Lexi Cameron enjoyed the climbing wall and had their faces painted during the anual highland games at Invergarry shinty field on Saturday afternoon. Visitors came from far and wide to attend the show, which went ahead almost completely as scheduled despite some blustery showers.

A HISTORICAL highland games was enjoyed by locals and tourists thanks to some savvy organisation and commitment.

Glengarry Highland Games took place at Invergarry shinty field last Saturday and despite having to contend with heavy downpours, was still a resounding success.

Eric MacKenzie, games announcer, said: ‘It has been fantastic. When we were crowning the ‘games queen’ the clouds opened up and the sun shone, it was almost biblical.

‘Ten out of ten to all the people who turned up – because they really stayed for all of the events – and 10 out of 10 for the organisers, because thanks to their hard work we were able to continue with a full programme of events inspite of the rain. The only thing we had to forgo was the tug’o’war because it would have been a bit dangerous, but other than that everything was grand.’

The games has history going back to the events held by the 15 Chieftain of the Clan MacDonnell in the late 18 and early 19 century and continues to attract attention from far and wide to this day.

Mr MacKenzie said: ‘We are on the road to and from Skye, so this is an ideal place for passersby and we get a lot of interest from people aboard. They’ve got to see Scotland in all its glory today, rain and shine, and it hasn’t stopped them sampling the ice- cream either.’

Alison Donald, who helped organise the games, said: ‘The dancers had to go inside which is a bit of a shame as they are a real focal point, but all in all it has been a success. We are really pleased that everyone has enjoyed themselves and thankful of all the support. It has been a real family day out.’

Rhona Cameron, who attended the games with her three young kids, said: ‘ We’ve had a lovely day. There have been gaps in the rain which has meant it’s been fine really and everyone here has been in fine spirits regardless. There has been lots to do and the kids have really enjoyed the climbing wall and face painting.’

The weight over the bar contest at Glengarry Games. 21_ F28 Glengarry Games5_ Heavy Shot Glengarry Brave Erin McLean and Lexi Cameron reached for the stars as they took to the climbing wall at Glengarry Games. 21_ F28 Glengarry Games1_Girls

Glengarry had a good number of athletes competing in the heavy events. 21_ F28 Glengarry Games4_ HeavyThrow Glengarry Highland

Highland Games Eilidh Cameron, aged 3, enjoying the Glengarry Games. 21_ F28 Glengarry Games2_Girls Rock Climbing Glengarry

The raffle was supported by local businesses and restaurants.

Attendees from far and wide enjoyed the Glengarry Games.

Crowds watching the Invergarry Highland Games.