A Lanarkshire Highland Games competitor is gearing up to head to the world championships next month.
Paul Dearie will compete in the Masters World Championships, held this year in New Brunswick in Canada.
Last year Paul, who is originally from Shotts but now lives in Carluke, suffered heartbreak when he was unable to compete in the event in Austin, Texas, because of a travel ban on UK arrivals but is set to board a plane to Canada next month.
He said: “It’s a bit of a relief, I keep thinking another variant is going to come along and scupper my chances but it’s so far so good.
“Preparations have been going well. I had my first Games last weekend so I’m feeling good.
“It will be tough as there will be Americans and Canadians who don’t normally compete over here so it will be interesting to see how I compete on a world level.
“I’m lucky that I have a gym in my garage so I’m able to lift without any problem especially as it can be hard to juggle work and family time.
“I also have a couple of guys locally who throw so if arrange a time to go out you don’t want to let them down.”
Paul’s trip to Canada has been helped by a generous donation from Shotts Highland Games Committee.
The Games chairman Robert Williams was on hand to present Paul with an undisclosed sum.
Paul added: “It was a very classy gesture by the committee and I was honoured to accept it.”
Robert Williams said: “The Highland Games Committee members are pleased to sponsor Paul for this prestigious trip.
“It was a difficult decision to cancel the annual Games because of problems to find a suitable venue and recruiting more helpers.
“It was decided to use our funds to support events which embraced traditional Scottish events, keeping Shotts history and heritage alive.
“We have given support to a number of events in the past three years including the Strathclyde Highland Dancing championships held in Calderhead High School and funding a heavy events day at Hannah Park.
“The Association also helped individual young people to undergo pipe band tuition.
“We are delighted to be giving financial support to Paul to help him to travel allow him to take part in the Masters Worlds Highland Games in Canada where he will represent Shotts and Scotland.
“I know he will do us proud at this competition in his sporting performance and as an ambassador for Highland Games.
“We wish him well.”
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