Visitors from across Europe, the US and Canada are expected to flock to the Ballater Highland Games tomorrow.thurs
The games always attract tourists from across the pond, who lap up the Scottish traditions from the side of the arena or compete with the north-east’s heavyweights.
But this year there will be two familiar faces among the spectators at Monaltrie Park, as the Duke and Duchess of Rothesay are due to attend.
Prince Charles and Camilla, who often attend the Braemar Gathering in September with the Queen, will be greeted by Lord Lieutenant of Aberdeenshire James Ingleby, before taking in the spectacle from the chieftain’s tent.
As well as the usual heavyweight competitions, such as the hammer throw, caber tossing and shot putt, there will be athletic, piping and Highland dancing contests.
The massed pipe band will also parade through around the park throughout the day, and will welcome Chieftain Captain Alwyne Farquharson, of Invercauld, at 2.30pm.
Organisers are now keeping their fingers crossed that the weather earlier this week does not dampen their efforts.
Secretary Ron Drever said: “We’re on target and everything is going well.
“We’ve had a lot of people getting in touch from all over the world to ask about pre-booking tickets or to find out how to enter. It’s amazing, we’ve had queries from the US, Canada and Europe from people wanting to take part. It’s very international.”
As well as the games, there will be the popular various trade stalls and a fun fair. The gates open in time for the first heavyweight competitions at 11am.