Victoria, B.C. Tartan Parade

[beloitpiper]

I didn't know you were a piper! And that uniform is awesome.

[Raphael]

Nice Pictures.

[Alan H]

I'm gonna have to get up there and meet you lot in BC. gotta, gotta, gotta.

[Hamish]

David, the fact that you are a piper is news to me! You have kept that one quiet.

What great photos too. I am not a 'uniform' man by any means, but yours is stunning - the military style tunic: simple but so effective, and the gorgeous tartan so well pleated to the stripe. What is that tartan, by the way, and who makes the kilts?

I am sure we all look forward to photos of the Games on Saturday.

Thank you -

Take care,
Ham.

[Tartan Hiker]

I've been trying for the past 24 hours to control myself, but alas, I am weak.

You guys look great, the uniforms and kilts are very sharp.

But your wife looks absolutely amazing. Oh, my, you are one lucky hombre!



Keep smiling!

[Macman]

Thank you all for the compliments. I wish the level of my piping was up to them!
The jackets are similar to a pattern that used to be worn by the Victoria constabulary, and the buttons are custom made with the band's crest. The tartan is the official tartan created for the band. The kilts are made by Burnett's & Struth in Lochcarron 18 oz. That was the first time I wore my new kilt. We also have horsehair sporrans and spats, and are raising money for plaids and feather bonnets. Our band is made up of a wide variety of individuals. Many are police officers, serving and retired, as well as firefighters and others involved in public safety. We are also fortunate to have a number of members who've competed at the Grade 1 level solo and in bands, so there is wide spread in skill level.
My daughter's billie kilt is the red Mackintosh, and my wife's is the New York City Commemorative Tartan, both from Burnett's & Struth.
The drum major for the parade is from the Canadian Scottish Regiment, and I believe you may be right about his ancestry. The regimental pipes and drums will be the duty band at the upcoming games this weekend.
I'm glad you enjoyed the pics. I'll try to get some more over the weekend.

[Macman]

Hamish, I don't think I'd taken up the pipes when you were here for your visit. Barb knows what I sound like, though, from the kilt kamp.
Oh yeah, and here are some closer pictures of the kilt.