Scotland Outdoors

A dramatic slackline crossing of the Lower Falls on the Nevis River launched the festival programme in December 2007.

John Ritson, described by organisers as 'one of the UK's leading slackliners', began the crossing wearing a kilt as he crossed a nine-metre line anchored between two points across the gorge at the foot of the rugged 5m high falls.

He later told BBC Scotland Outdoors that it was the first time he had worn a kilt, and that he had accidentally caught the hem on the nylon webbing, testing his focus as he crossed the gorge. He temporarily changed into more familiar trousers and trainers, but later returned to complete the stunt in his kilt.

When asked about the appeal of the sport, John explained that the slackline stunt had not only given a huge adrenaline rush, but had also been "an opportunity to enter into a space which had possibly never previously been occupied by any another person."

Page first published on Monday 17th December 2007
Page last updated on Tuesday 17th June 2008