Pipers and dancers extend themselves

Performing at the Otago Centre Solo Piping and Highland Dancing Competitions in Dunedin on Saturday are (from left) Jackson Powell (8), of Christchurch, Gabrielle Rodger (8), of Chertsey, Sophie Davis (9), of Gore, and Henry Smith (9), of Dunedin. Photo by Peter McIntosh.

The 105th annual Otago Centre Solo Piping and Highland Dancing Competitions began in the University of Otago College of Education auditorium on Friday and finished yesterday.

The competition included the Under 18 New Zealand Highland and National Dancing Championship and Under 21 New Zealand Piping Championship.

Centre vice-president Annetta Cowie said many of the 193 competitors - 137 dancers and 56 pipers - travelled as from as far north as Auckland and south as Tuatapere, to compete.

The number of pipers competing had fallen but the number of dancers was "pleasing'', MrsDancing developed a child's "musicality, confidence and co-ordination''.

"It's a good left and right brain exercise because they are having to do different things with their hands to their feet.''

shawn.mcavinue@odt.co.nz