GALLERY: Clans unite as sunshine occasionally peeks through at Glenfinnan Highland Gathering

By Louise Glen

August 19 2019, 7:53 am

Eilidh Smith age 9 from Huntly competes in the Highland fling Scottish country dancing

The crowds that assembled for Saturday’s Glenfinnan Highland Gathering were all champions, not least for braving the rain.

In a day of inclement weather, changing from sunshine to wind and showers within moments, more than 1,000 people went through the gate at the annual gathering.

Organisers said they were happy with the day and the numbers of people taking part.

Traditional musician Fergie MacDonald donned his famous red socks as chieftain.

Lochaber pipe band lead the march from monument to games field

Young Fraser Robertson who is six officially opens this years games by raising the standard with a little help from his dad David

Mr MacDonald praised the crowd, and said it was an “absolute privilege” to be the chieftain at such an important gathering.

He said: “It was a good day and the weather didn’t dampen spirits. It was so good to see so many friendly faces.”

Angus MacPhail, founding member of traditional music group Skipinnish, put down his accordion for the day to compete in the men’s heavyweight events.

Mr MacPhail said: “It was my first games as a heavyweight competitor in a few years and I’m delighted to get a cup for winning the heavy hammer.

“A few other firsts, a couple of seconds and even a last – in the dreaded shot putt. Came second overall and had a great day. ”

From bus drivers to policemen, there were a huge number of competitors taking part in the piping and Highland dancing competitions.

Large numbers took part in the events – set only a stone’s throw of where Harry Potter’s Tri-Wizard Tournament was filmed.

Visitor Linda Barnes, from Seattle, said she thought the whole day looked “magical”.

She added: “I cannot believe that Highland games really exist. It is so nice to meet so many lovely Scottish men in one place.”

At nighttime, three up-and-coming traditional music super stars, Michael MacLeod on button accordion, Hannah MacRae on fiddle and Lauren Byrne on guitar and voice were in fine form, as The Lochy Ceilidh band wowed games survivors with a good mix of fine dance tunes alongside outstanding singing.

A group of Americans who had made their way to Glenfinnan to join in with the games were delighted to learn the Boston Two Step, The Gay Gordons, the Military Two Step and the Virginia Reel – taught by some very enthusiastic locals.