The tug-of-war is not a sporting event that's meant to be taken too seriously, and the Queen certainly seemed to see the funny side of things as she watched two sets of burly competitors do battle at the Braemar Gathering. Her Majesty was pictured laughing heartily, along with her son Prince Charles and daughter-in-law Camilla, while teams from the Balmoral and Invercauld Estates hauled for all they were worth.
Britain's royal family are regular visitors to the annual games, which include such events as tossing the caber and traditional Highland dancing. And the grey skies looming overhead could do little to dampen their spirits as they watched all the action unfold from the comfort of an enclosed pavilion.
The monarch clapped and cheered enthusiastically when the boys from Balmoral were declared the winners. And it was equally clear who the Duchess of Cornwall was rooting for, as she was sporting Balmoral tartan with her black velvet bonnet. Prince Philip, who was wearing a kilt, meanwhile appeared especially interested in the children's sack race, smiling broadly and pointing as one young girl took the lead.
Braemar's annual games date back to the days of King Malcolm Canmore nearly 1,000 years ago. Widely considered the most prestigious of Scotland's Highland Games, it attracts fans and competitors from all over Britain and around the world.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
