The hammer

Today we went to the Ballater Highland Games, not to be confused with the Braemar Games to be held next month.

I enjoy watching the Heavy Field Events. Unlike the specialists that we are used to seeing at Olympic, Commonwealth, World, and other championships these competitors take part in all events, and their prowess is measured not just in today's games but in a whole series that are staged in Grampian during the summer. Competitors are welcomed from all parts of the world, but in the Heavy Field category all entrants wear a kilt.

Other events include Scottish country dancing, piping, running and high, long and triple jumps. Children are encouraged to participate in the running and special events such as the sack race.

I'm delighted to say that all races, throws etc. are mesueed in imperial units!

The most gruelling event must be the hill race - a sprint up a local hill and back down again. The record for this is just under 17 minutes.

Pipe bands give the event a truly Scottish feel.This year Ballater's own pipe band was supported by the Royal Regiment of Scotland with the Royal Scottish Borderers, the Queen's bodyguard, joining the parade. The army aren't just there for ceremonial duties, two took part in the hill race and two teams entered the tug-of-war.

Beating the Retreat takes place in the village this evening.

For more information about the Ballater Highland Games click here