Women of the Highland Games

I had the pleasure again this year to attend the NoDak Scottish Highland Games in Grand Forks.  The breeze was appreciated because the sunshine provided heat right along with the athletes.

Last year, the games did not have as many competitors and there were only two women.  Many women displayed their strength this time around.

Much like the Shield Maidens from the Vikings of Norway, the Celtic woman were also a force to be reckoned with. In 1297 the Countess of Ross led her warriors during the times of William Wallace.  They likely swung their Scottish hammers to take out the enemies.

The clans long ago used these competitions to find the right person for the job and then it evolved into more of a celebration filled with food and pipes.

These ladies were impressive with their athletic ability, and I loved how they cheer each other on with great joy.  They truly supported one another with encouragement and advice.

Can you imagine tossing a heavy sheaf over a bar that keeps going up in height during the competition?   I had to smile when they were joking about the stress placed upon the bladders.  They just had fun together.

My shoulder started to hurt just watching them throw the heavy Braemar stones.  You would not want to be on the receiving end of that toss.

My favorite event had to be the Caber Toss and it seems to be the hardest.  The cabers were made out of trees and usually are between 16 - 20 feet tall and 80- 150 pounds.  The athlete needs to pick it off the ground and gets it into throwing position.  The idea is to have it land end over end at the 12-noon position.

I have no doubt that these women could be victorious on a battlefield in ancient times.  These women were amazing in strength and having warm hearts.