A fine fling at Rouken Glen

PRAYERS were answered at Rouken Glen Park on Saturday as the sun reared its head in time for the 2013 Highland Games.

The event drew huge crowds as – for the first time – both men and women competed for the titles.

Close to 20 athletes from all over the world took part in the caber toss, hammer throw, atlas stones and more.

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Joint first in the Scottish Native Championship were Craig Sinclair (Drumoak, Aberdeenshire) and Sinclair Patience (Inverness), followed by Neil Elliot (Helensburgh) in third.

In the Women’s International Challenge, English competitor Shaunagh Brown snagged the top spot, followed by Anett von der Weppen (Germany) in second and Pora Porsteinsdottir (Iceland) in third.

The Glasgow Warriors came top in the Local Hero competition, followed by teams from Ayrshire and Dumfries.

Entertainment was provided by dance troupes and a drumming group, and spectators were able to take part in their own events, including the ladies’ welly-throwing challenge and children’s races.

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The Games were visited by a special (and busy) guest, 2014 Commonwealth Games mascot Clyde – who also put in an appearance at the Clarkston BID event the following day (pics to follow online and in this week’s Extra).

And community groups and organisations were also out in force, with the East Renfrewshire trading standards team providing information on their cold calling campaign, and the area’s Cats Protection branch fundraising for Thomas, a kitten in their care in need of surgery.

East Renfrewshire provost and Games chieftain Alastair Carmichael said: “It’s been another brilliant event.

“It’s great to see so many people turn out for the Games, and have such a terrific time here in our lovely Rouken Glen Park.

“Well done to everyone at the council involved in organising it. It was a wonderful day out – and congratulations to our winners.”

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