Lochaber Strongman Stuart Whyte was on the road again on the weekend of November 25/26.
Firstly the award winning strongman and Iron Therapy Gym owner took part in the ‘Dodge City’ powerlifting event in Alloa where he competed against fellow athletes from across the country.
In the day long show of strength he came first in the axle press, pushing a massive
125kg, later coming third in the deadlift at 265kg.
These combined results gave an overall score which made him third in the competition overall.
No sooner had he returned from Alloa he headed to Invergarry where, by the ruined castle and in a temperature approaching minus five degrees centigrade, he lifted the village stone which was formerly used in the Highland Games until the 1960s or early 1970s.
Since then it has lain dormant, being used instead as a step for riders to mount horses in the stables.
Stuart said: “It certainly was a very busy weekend with wintry weather in Alloa and frozen ground in Invergarry.
“I have been going around the country lifting these stones, which are still widespread but mainly unrecognised right across the Highlands.
“Every village had one as a test of strength, often solving disputes between clans.
“When I found out about this one, which weighs around 150kg I had to lift it.
“I believe it was used in the Highland Games held just behind the Hotel and it is very possible that I am the first person to actually lift it in over 50 years.
“It was a great experience, despite the bitter cold and ticks another one on my list.”
Featured image: Stuart Whyte (left) on the podium after coming third in the Dodge City competition. Photograph supplied. NO_F50_Strongman_StuartWhyte_23_Alloa