Nations unite for International Piping in the Park; Fitzhenry wins it

Dungannon, Northern Ireland – August 4, 2012 – The International Piping in the Park Solo Competition, inspired in part by a tongue-in-cheek 2006 Blogpipe post, was won by Mike Fitzhenry, originally from Canada, who donned a large moose hat to reflect his nationality while delivering a crowd-pleasing 20-minute set.

The competition is organized by the Grade 2 Aughintober Pipe Band, and followed the Ulster Pipe Band Championships, won by Field Marshal Montgomery earlier in the day. The solo event was attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd, well lubricated by flowing beverages.

Kevin Rogers of Ireland represented his nation with a tune selection that included Phil Coulter’s “Ireland’s Call,” the Irish international rugby team’s anthem, which catered to the local rugby club venue where the contest was held. Rogers was joined by his brother Stephen on the Cajon box for part of his set.

Red Hot Chilli Piper Kyle Warren portrayed Scotland with humour and catwalk talent, securing much of the female support, while Australia’s Ian Lyons took the stage wearing a bushman’s hat with dangling corks and singlet, opening with “Waltzing Matilda” and following with a set of compositions mostly composed by himself and fellow Ozzie Murray Blair.

Scott Wallace of Northern Ireland was named “Most Entertaining Player,” joined by Dermot Mulholland on guitar and fellow Gareth McClees on drums.

Gary Waterson and Glenn Cupples judged the contest.