We met at the Dalwhinnie stone at 08.30 to be met with pouring rain and howling wind so it didn't look good for the rest of the tour.
We met Jeff and Corey Bach with Jimmy and Ryan from America. Dolores McGuckin and Sam from Ireland, and myself and Mark Steadman from Scotland made up the tour.
Everyone was fresh off their beautiful sunny day at The Gathering so we're in for a shock with the proper Scottish weather.
After lifting the Dalwhinnie stone in the worst of conditions the rain eased off for a bit so we could get Newtownmore and Ruthven Barracks stones lifted however the wind was almost unbearable at times.
Then the rain was back for Auchernack Farm and Old Spey Bridge.
We decided to shoot for Barevan, however this became a hell of a task as to get there you have to travel through forest roads and we were met with felled trees at every road almost.
However after a few re-routes we eventually managed to get there. An epic end to an epic day with the best company too.
Highlights of the tour lifting wise was Dolores lifting the small Auchernack after a mammoth fight with it.
Also Mark getting the Barevan lifted after a huge fight with it also.
Was great to see Jimmy with a stand up with the big Auchernack also, and Jeff winding the big Ruthven stone.
As for me, well, my knees aren't playing ball just now so shouldering has become difficult with bigger stones but we move forward regardless.
A lot of stonelifters shy away from lifting in the rain which is a shame because if you can lift in those conditions you can lift in anything. In short it makes you a much better stonelifter without a shadow of a doubt, and it always ends up being an adventure you'll never forget.
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An unforgettable journey through Scotland’s stone-lifting heritage, made even more epic by braving the force of Storm Floris! We visited six incredible locations, some steeped in history, and each one offered a unique challenge and story.
What truly made this tour special was the people — stonelifters from Missouri, Scotland, and Ireland came together in a spirit of camaraderie and shared respect for tradition. The support and encouragement throughout were second to none.
Despite the wild weather, the energy never dropped. This was more than just a tour — it was a powerful reminder of the strength of community and culture. A once-in-a-lifetime experience that I’ll never forget.