Was just about to head home after a  wonderful two days of photographing the largest Highland Games when I realised that the Lord Provost was about to make the closing speach of the games. Being the only photographer left I was able to fire off a few shots and  to get the group shot here with Lord and Lady Provost and the principle organisors (and whose concept it was).

Brilliant few days in Edinburgh for all the Clans gathering together from home and abroad and a for all of us in Edinburgh too!

Closing party of Edinburgh Highland Games 2009

A stunning two days in Edinburgh and the largest Clan Gathering and Highland Games in Scotland for years took place in Holyrood Park next to Holyrood Palace. Blest with fabulous weather, visitors and competitors from around the globe enjoyed a spectacular set up with a backdrop of the  scenery beneath the volcanic rock that is known as Arthur’s Seat.

A Clan Chief in the Clan Village at the Highland Games Edinburgh.

I only got one shot of this magnificent looking gentleman as there were lots of people passing in front of me. Rather than increase the colour I took some some away in Photoshop which gives a rather ‘old painting’ feel to it. Other than removing some awning out at the top right, again in Photoshop, nothing else has been done. The little boy and the other person to the left and in quite dark area of the image, add to it in my view. Happy for any opinions on this image.
(Nikon D300, Lens 70-200 f2.8, 500 sec at f11)

A competitor watches as his caber flies through the air for only seconds

Julie Fowlis performs on the Music Stage at the games

Having just cleared the bar above him, this competitor celebrates as his 56lb weight drops behind him.

An athlete frozen in time as he throws the caber

Two pretty girls having a great day!

Lifting a huge stone ball onto a high barrel - his face says it all.

A team challenges the Tug o' War World Champions