About the Exhibition

Growing Old Competitively is a photographic exhibition celebrating older athletes who continue to compete at the highest levels. The exhibition features 12 striking images by photographer Alex Rotas, selected from her 2018 series at the Park Gallery, Falkirk, and highlighting senior Scottish sports participants.

The photographs capture athletes aged 60 to 90+ in action at their chosen events, including sprints, hurdles, long jump, high jump, pole vault, and distance races — often in moments of record-breaking performance or medal-winning achievement. Each image showcases skill, dedication, and the energy of competitive sport at any age.

Community Involvement The exhibition was curated and installed with the support of Larbert High School pupils, who participated as part of a summer work placement with Artlink Central’s Art Coordinator. Pupils from the Art and Design department:

• Assisted with curation and installation of the artwork

• Created interpretation text for visitors

• Contributed to other activities supporting the Art and Wellbeing programme

This partnership gave students hands-on experience in exhibition delivery and arts-based community engagement, combining creative learning with practical skills.

Special Events Photographer Alex Rotas visited the exhibition in August 2023, accompanied by Falkirk Council’s Exhibitions Officer Gillian Smith. The visit included:

• A talk at Larbert High School for photography higher students

• Dedicated feedback sessions for students on their own creative work

This event provided an invaluable opportunity for young creatives to learn directly from a professional photographer and engage with the themes of age, achievement, and performance in sport.

Explore & Learn More View the mini interview with Alex Rotas and Gillian Smith [here] (link to interview)