Bright sunshine helped bring thousands of spectators and a packed field of top-class competitors to the Perth Highland Games.
Games Chieftain Provost John Hulbert was delighted to open Sunday’s games which entered into the Perth 800 spirit.
In recognition of the anniversary of the granting of the Royal Burgh Charter to Perth by William the Lion of Scotland in 1210, the games committee increased the prize money in the 800m open running event and doubled the prize money in all youth running events.
Local bands and pipers were joined in competition by a high-grade field, which included solo musicians and bands from as far afield as Canada and Australia. There were also excellent Highland dancing and heavyweight competitions.
The games committee was delighted with the entry for the Highland dancing which required two platforms, such were the number of youngsters taking part.
There was drama too as one of the riders in the cycling competition came a cropper in front of spectators. The rider had streaked into the lead but lost his saddle just 20 metres from the finish line. Organisers called an ambulance for the injured cyclist, who was taken to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee having suffered rib injuries and a blow to the head.
The hard conditions underfoot also had a disruptive influence on the heavyweight events, with one jolting impact breaking the shaft of one of the heavy hammers. Fortunately, the breakage occurred near the end of the discipline and there wasn’t too much disruption for the athletes.
Teams from all over Scotland took part in the tug o’ war, with commentators joking that some reinstatement work would be needed on the Inch as the competitors had been doing so much “ploughing.”
With fun games, refreshments and the traditional massing of the pipe bands to bring the games to a close, everyone seemed to have had a great day out.
Games secretary Andrew Rettie said the 2010 event had been a huge success.
“We’ve had a very good day and I’m delighted there’s been such a good turnout,” he said. “There has been a large field of competitors much improved on previous years and that is very satisfying. The numbers have been particularly good in the running competitions and with numbers comes quality.” Mr Rettie also made a special presentation to Bill Miller, who has served as treasurer for the Perth Highland Games for the past 13 years. No successor has yet been found for Mr Miller and games organisers are keen to see someone come forward to join the committee in his place.
“It is a big event and we could do with someone to help out,” Mr Rettie said.
Anyone who thinks they could take on the role is asked to contact Andrew Rettie on 01738 627782 or email andrew@highlandgames.co.ukTo view a full gallery of pictures from the games, click here.