43rd annual Scottish Highland Games
On Feb. 24 and 25 Riggs Stadium became the gathering place of the Scottish Highland Games.
The gathering is a proud tradition that pits men and women in the tradition of bruit strength and competition.
The games, formed in 1964, combined with The Scottish Society of Arizona in 1981 to form The Caledonian Society of Arizona.
The society is dedicated to “promoting, supporting, and encouraging the arts, culture and heritage of Scotland through the Highland Games.”
The opening ceremonies began with the colorful introductions of Scottish clans by famed singer Alex Beaton.
Clans represented were such clans as MacLauchlan, MacFarlane, MacIntosh, and the Clan Wallace.
Opening ceremonies ended with the presentation of the Mesa Caledonian Pipe Band that gave the crowd an emotional version of Amazing Grace.
Howard Stewart, games chair, stated that, “(Scottish) clan turnout varies form year to year and this time we’ve had a great turnout.”
Stewart went on to state that he was happy MCC had given the council more room for the venders and children’s play areas.
The Highland Games brought pro athletes from across the country as well as Canada to compete in such games as Weight Toss, Hammer Throw, Stone Put (similar to the Olympic Shot Put) and the games favorite, the Caber Toss, throwing of a telephone pole.
Jeff Loosle pushed the Weight Toss to its top height of over sixteen feet and on his third try cleared the bar and the competition.
Other activities at the Highland Games were Celtic re-enactments by the 1745 Jacobite Society that hosted black powder demonstrations on flintlock muskets and pistols.
William Wilson, master swordsman, of the Highland Rogues demonstrated the fine art of historical swashbuckling that inspired young men in the crowd.
Musical entertainment was found on several venues and included Alex Beaton with his traditional songs and stories, rocking Paisley Close of Houston, TX and Needfire with their delightful bagpipes.
Highland dancing, an intricate part of Scottish history dates back to the time of Roman occupation of ancient Caledonia, dancing depicted glorious battles and was once considered an athletic event.
Dancing is now a display of tradition and beautiful costumes.
For further information on the Highland Games and Scottish Societies and future events visit www.arizonascots.com.
Volume 44, Issue 11. Today is
Corey Finch stands, bagpipes in hand, in front of the audience gathered for MCC’s Scottish Highland Games. The event hosted at Riggs Stadium included fun, festivities, games and competitions.
The Mesa Caledonian Pipe Band parades along the track.
Members of the Scottish Society of Arizona Honor Guard carry in the American flag.
Girls of all ages perform traditional Scottish dances.
The Mesa Caledonian Pipe Band marches across the football field
Photos by David Burgess/Mesa Legend