2011-12 Photos of the Argyllshire Gathering and Oban Games

[creagdhubh]

Greetings,

Below are a "sampling" of photos taken at the annual Argyllshire Gathering and Oban Games at Mossfield Park in Oban, Argyllshire, Scotland. The photos were taken during the 2011 and 2012 games and gathering. Many of the images feature the 28th MacCailein Mor, the 35th Chief of Clan Campbell, His Grace, the Duke of Argyll, Torquhil Ian Campbell. It is interesting to see the "variations upon a theme," in regards to the traditional manner and approach of the wearing of Highland dress. Each individual as their own unique style and personal preferences, yet they are not vastly different from one to the other.

One of my good mates and professional piper, Matt Pantaleoni of St. Louis, Missouri, can be seen in the crowd of pipers that lead the parade (the pipers are always placed immediately in front of His Grace, the Duke of Argyll, et al) from the harbor in Oban, onto the games field at Mossfield Park. Matt competes in the piping circuit throughout Scotland, with the Argyllshire Gathering and the Northern Meeting, quite obviously, being his top competitions.

The Argyllshire Gathering and Oban Games are truly a thrilling sight to behold, and I encourage those who have not yet attended, to do so at some point in your life. You will certainly be given a warm, West Highland welcome and undoubtedly, will have a most splendid and memorable time. Enjoy the photos.












Cheers,