An Englishman has once again hung on to the top title in that most Scottish of sports, The World Caber Championships.
Scott Ryder from Kent was victorious in the hotly-contested competition at Inveraray Highland Games yesterday.
Mr Ryder also won the title in 2013 and 2014 and last year he shared it with Sebastian Wenta from Poland, when both men demonstrated extreme skill by throwing the heavy caber in such a way that it landed at exactly 12 o’clock, which is perfection in a caber competition.
But this year the glory was his alone again after a final with friend on the games circuit Matt Vincent from Louisiana in the United States.
More than 4,000 competitors and spectators entered the games field, being held in Winterton Park in the grounds of Inveraray Castle, the home of the Duke of Argyll.
Soaring temperatures and beautiful sunshine ensured the there was an increase of ticket sales on the gate and competitor numbers were also up.
This was the eighth year running that the games hosted the World Caber Championships, which attract the highest calibre of athletes from all over the world – from as far afield as Australia and Canada, not forgetting the home grown talent.
Mr Ryder was presented with the Scottish Games Association medal.
It is a true test of physical prowess because the caber at the World Championships is one of the biggest, if not the biggest, on the circuit, measuring more than 20ft tall and weighing in at more than 140lbs.
Caber finalist Matt Vincent was delighted to break a new record in the 28lb stone throwing competition in the heavy events.
The previous record was 76ft 4ins but despite the scorching temperatures yesterday, Mr Vincent managed to throw it 76ft 10ins.
The games were opened following a march by Inveraray and District Pipe Band to the Games field.
Other attractions included piping, Highland dancing and athletics competitions, a wide range of stalls and delicious local food from Argyll producers on sale.
There were also charity stalls and children’s entertainment, as well as a falconry display by KG Hawks and contingents from 4 Scots and 7 Scots were be in attendance.
