Ian and I had our first experience of The Highland Games this past weekend. The Highland Games are traditional Scottish events in which spectators can watch competitors take part in a variety of events such as heavyweight contests, tug-of-war, and Highland dancing. The games are held at various venues throughout the summer season. I have to say I was a little skeptical as to whether or not I would enjoy the event, as it really sounded like it was more geared toward men. I was greatly surprised! We ended up spending most of the day at the event and loved every minute of it. We watched the heavyweight contests which included shot-put, weight over the bar, tossing the caber, and a few others. These guys were amazing!!! They would throw a 30lb weight so far and so high! The weight over the bar competition ended with the winner throwing a 20lb weight over a 17.5 ft bar above his head and breaking the record at that event location. It was really fun to watch.

The “toss” the caber event had me the most amazed though. The competitors would throw a tree on its edge to see how close they could get it to standing and landing in the twelve o’clock position. I mean they were really throwing a tree, and not a seedling, a full grown tree!!!! Check out the picture of this guy picking it up. It truly was amazing!

I am sure that every one of you can remember playing tug-of-war at some point in your childhood. Well, let me tell you . . . this was no child’s game of tug-of-war. There were teams from local towns in matching uniforms and with coaches. They had strategy, skill, and most importantly, a lot of muscle! It was so fun to watch them battle it out and see the techniques the different teams had.

We also watched a little of the Highland dancing, which is a competition among youths and young adults in traditional Scottish dancing. Not my preferred style of dancing, but impressive all the same. They danced to songs being played on the bagpipes.

Overall, I would highly recommend that visitors to Scotland see The Highland Games. I know that Ian and I will be going to another set of games before the season is over.