Recieve The Gazette in Email Form, for this quarter’s features section on Highland Athletics ISSUE 11 / SPRING ’11 Bill Parsons, Editor 6504 Shadewater Drive Hilliard, OH 43026 513-476-1112 [email protected]

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE CALEDONIAN SOCIETY OF CINCINNATI

In This Issue: Women In @ AGM 1,4 A HISTORIC ANNUAL MEETING! Burns Night Recap/Pix 2,19* Scholarship.Report 2 he President opened the meeting *Schedule of Events 2 asking if ‘Proper Notice’ had *President’s Letter 3 Tbeen sent, Robert confirmed it. CSHD 3 Ted presented the treasurer’s report. He provided comparison data Cinti Highld Dancers 3 for the past several years. Mr. Clipson Gazette N’Email Form 4 asked when money or donations are *Resource List 4 received where is it allocated? All Payback /Westminster 5 monies are directed to the funds for Why an Email Gazette 6 which the monies are received, should money arrive without any direction *Email PDF Issue only 7-21* it is placed in the General Fund. A conduct such as to make a desirable The General Annual Highland Ath. 7-12 total of $2,000 has recommend by the member.” Meeting was a crowded Q&A High Ath. 13-17* board CCP&D-$1000, HDance-$300, Proposed Text: “To be eligible event. Both members and guests were High. Ath. Resources 18* OVSS-$300, GMG-$250, KSW-$150. to membership in the Society, Robert announced the new members, a candidate must be a native of in attendance at as Out of the Sporran 20-21* historic amendments they were: Ewen Cameron and Stephen Scotland, or of Scottish descent. were to be voted on. Galbraith. Jesse read the report of items The Candidate must be a person of held in the storage location and his good moral character and his or her PAY YOUR DUES! house. Lyle Reid presented the report general conduct such as to make a Don’t forget to pay your current on The Scholarships. A motion was desirable member.” dues. made to disperse these funds it passed. Rex noted that the Board The Caledonian Society of Cincinnati, All current officers and Board recommends that this amendment Robert Reid, Corspd. Secretary member Ducan Moir were relected, be approved! Gordon harkened 6052 Delicious Asha Ct and Larry Pauley became Society 3- back to a comment for the last Loveland OH 45140 year Trustee, with Counselor being meeting noting that ‘if it aint’ broke Jesse Andrews were elected. All don’t fix it’ noting that it may not be Caledonian If you have any questions Appointments were accepted. broke but it can be improved. Lyle please contact Robert Reid at: Pipes & Drums Voting on Constitutional R.- “Many things have changed in 444-4920 or Tartan Day [email protected] Amendments—The President asked the world and women have risen that Robert read the amendment. to the top positions in many areas Ceilidh—April Amendment 1: A proposed of the society.” Arch O.- “we have 9th, 6-11pm Issue Deadlines amendment to change the Code heard all these argument for years of Regulations, Article II, “Persons some many times”. At this time the Adults $8, 12 & If you have something you want to under FREE at put in The Gazette, your materials Eligible to be admitted”, to allow President suspended the meeting for must be received by: female members has been submitted 8 minutes to allow non-members to the Sycamore Sr. Summer June 15th for approval of the membership at the speak. Lenora G.-I am 100% Scot Annual Meeting. and I am not allowed to be part of Ctr. See the Fall September 1st ad page 16 or Winter December 1st Current Text: “To be eligible this organization. Why can I not We solicit any and to membership in this Society, a join just because I am a woman? the attached all articles about the candidate must be a Scotchman, or of Arline P.- “Women who don’t Scotch descent. He must be a man of have membership have never been insert. Contact Scottish Culture and Robert Reid! 1 Organizations good moral character and his general excluded and have no need to be t Continued on page 4 The Wesley & Virginia Montgomery Caledonian Scholarship Trust *Success for Burns Night 2011!

cotland has a history and tradition of placing host of talented entertainers performed on Burns’ Night at the Irish emphasis on the value of education for its children Heritage Center, Eastern Avenue. The event was a sell-out, enjoying and citizens. Perhaps this may explain why such a Athoughts of auld Scotland. Robert Burns, a lover of all things beautiful S —poetry, music, ale and lassies—would approve of his 252nd birthday small country has made such a tremendous contribution to the development of science, engineering and celebration! medicine over the centuries, with such inventions as What a night! From the traditional pomp of Jessie Andrews’ Color Guard the steam engine (Watt), radar (Watson-Watt), television to Alex Watt’s “Ode to a Haggis” and President Rex Wolfgang’s speech, the (Baird) anaesthetics (Simpson), penicillin (Fleming) and evening started. In Lyle Reid’s ‘Toast to the Lassies’, he announced, “Women animal cloning (Dolly the sheep). And let’s not forget can now become Members of the Caledonian Society”, drawing an appreciative the literary talents of Burns, Scott and Stephenson. round of applause. Lyle was followed by Debra Ruehlman with her musical Given this Scottish tradition it is not surprising that response in the ‘Lassies Reply’. Highland dancing is a big part of Burns’ Night, the Caledonian Society of Cincinnati decided many Louise Reid’s Cincinnati Highland Dancers were a colorful swirl of kilts in years ago to create a fund so that annual scholarships perfection. could be awarded to deserving university students of Scottish Ancestry. To qualify for a scholarship the The house lights dimmed for Gwlenys Reid’s picture show about the life student must be a resident of the Greater Cincinnati of Robert Burns. Through period engravings and current pictures, we learned Area, be currently enrolled in a degree course as a about the romantic young rebel who became the most charismatic and full time student in a Greater Cincinnati Area college controversial genius ever to come out of Scotland. Wherever he went, crowds or university, (these two criteria are waived for a gathered to listen to his witty humor and wicked sarcasm. However, from his Caledonian Society descendant) and have attained beginnings to pop star status in Edinburgh, the popular poet was never arrogant a Cumulative Grade Point Average of at least 2.5 of or conceited. By writing down his thoughts, he preserved his 18th century a possible 4.0. More information and application world for us to enjoy in our 21st century cyber age. forms can be obtained from the web site http:// Other acts were Highland Choreography by Katy Beth DeBellevue, who caledoniansociety.org/. performed on stage. David Wilshire recited Burns’ poetry, his daughter Katelyn It has been the practice of the Society to award led Will Spellman and Gabby Gerbus in singing Robert Burns’ “My Heart’s at least two scholarships each year at the Annual St. in the Highlands.” Children carrying red hearts joined these singers on stage. Andrew’s Ball in November. Last year scholarships were awarded to two talented young ladies, Claire We welcome youngsters to our events, so they absorb their Scottish heritage. Liegel (granddaughter of former President Arch Ott) and Rex Wolfgang and Jesse Andrews and David Wilshire acted out an amusing Katelyn Wilshire (daughter and granddaughter of former skit about the Bard. They were aided by John and Will Spellman, and Gabby Presidents David and Gordon Wilshire). Gerbus. A new act was, the ventriloquist Barbara Baxter, performing with her A few years ago our current President, Mr. Rex mind-reading doll, Uncle Scotty. Missy Gentry’s Cincinnati Scots Highland Wolfgang , made an extremely generous contribution Dancers, brought their grace to Scottish dances. Susan McLennan’s Royal to the scholarship fund and the name of the fund was Scottish Country Dancers performed well-loved folk dances. Next on stage was changed to the “Wesley and Virginia Montgomery Lyle Reid on flute, with Gwlenys Reid reciting Robert Burns’ love song, “My Caledonian Scholarship Trust”, in honor of their Love is Like a Red, Red Rose”. memory. Over the last two years funds were severely Then it was time for the Caledonian Pipes & Drums. the familiar sound depleted by the downturn in the Stock market, but are echoed and the band marched in, led by Drum Major Robert Reid and Pipe now inching their way upwards. Major Matt Kelly. The sound of pipes and drums echoed as musicians and In order to preserve our ability to continue to award dancers brought life to the music of Scotland. annual scholarships we would like to appeal to our membership to contribute to the Trust. Checks may be After the Ladies Haggis Toss and the Men’s Bonnie Knee Contest, the made payable to “The Caledonian Society of Cincinnati evening conluded with Burns’ – ‘Auld Lang Syne.’ It was a successful Burns’ Scholarship Trust”, or to the “Wesley and Virginia evening. n Montgomery Caledonian Scholarship Trust” and sent to *We offer many thanks to Robert Reid, Chris McLennan, Scotty and Barbara our treasurer*. n Muir, Billie Andrews and Cass Ott. These people were indispensable to the Cheers, Lyle Reid evening’s success. The Society owes them our deepest gratitude! *Mr. Edward McGregor, 1074 Emerson Road, Cheers, Gwlenys Reid Park Hills, KY 41011, or to Scholarship Trustee Dr. Daniel Bowen MD, 1350 William Howard Taft Rd., *See The Burns Night Photo Montage in the email version, Page 15. Cincinnati, OH 452063. Contact Robert Reid to receive the Gazette via email now.

Remember The 2011 Caledonian Calendar Your ‘11 Apr 15 Spring Mtg., Highland CC, Fort Thomas KY www.caledoniansociety.org Apr 9 Cal. Pipe Band Ceilidh-Sycamore Sr. Ctr. www.cincypipesanddrums.org Dues! May 14 Kentucky Scottish Weekend www.kyscottishweekend.org Contact May 21 A Celtic Gathering www.lancastercelticgathering.com May 21 Celtic Beltrane Festival www.beltanefestival.netfirms.com Robert Reid! June TBA Ohio Scottish Games www.ohioscottishgames.com June 2-5 Glasgow KY Highland Games www.glasgowhighlandgames.com July 7-10 Grandfather Mt. NC Scottish Games www.gmhg.org Aug 20 Cornroast, Keehner Park, West Chester, OH www.caledoniansociety.org 2 Sep 10-11 Columbus IN Highland Games www.scottishfestival.org Sep TBA Ligonier PA Highland Games www.ligonierhighlandgames.org Oct 22 Murray Highland Festival www.wkyhighlandfestival.com President’s Message— A Historic 184th year of continual existence...

“The law of the Creator, which personally opposed the passage yet The Building Fund will become tax FACT... invests every human being with an either voted for it (or abstained from deductible for the first time. Donations One of the inalienable title to freedom, cannot attendance) in recognition that the to Scholarship, which is a legally be repealed by any interior law which good of The Society required such a separate organization, have always largest costs asserts that man is property.” vote. This took great courage and I am been tax deductible. proud to call you all my friends. The Corn Roast is set for Saturday The Society has Salmon P. Chase Now on to the nuts and bolts of August 20th at Keehner Park, with the is postage for (Caledonian Society member) running The Society. Burns Night same two pavilions as last year. attendance was very good. So good Kentucky Scottish Weekend is set The Gazette. that The Irish Heritage Center probably for May 14th at General Butler State Greetings, proved to be too small a venue. Park. I am told that after next year (the Reduce your The above quote was from one of However this does not diminish the 30th year) it will go out of existence, dues! By our greatest members as he argued extreme good work of Robert Reid so take this opportunity to attend while in The Supreme Court against the in planning the event and his mother you still can. receiving The constitutionality of The Fugitive Slave Gwlenys in planning the nights Finally, I have appointed a four Act. The law that required runaway entertainment. Thank you both. person committee consisting of myself, Gazette in slaves that reached free states to be The next event is the spring meeting Billie Andrews, Duncan Moir. and email form returned to their masters. It was on April 15th at The Highland Country Gwlenys Reid to explore possible he, before others who saw the lack Club. The event will be centered new locations for St. Andrews. We your dues are of morality in such a law and it is around country dancing and will be in are currently very busy looking at upon the shoulders of such giants we honor of the late Nora Kindness, who locations and prices and should have only $20. welcome women members into the made a significant donation to The an announcement very soon. Contact society in our 184th year of continued Society in her will. Which brings me to existence. the next point- with the passage of the Your President, Robert Reid! I personally want to thank all women members vote, I am pursuing Rex those who worked hard to bring tax exempt status for The Society so about the vote and those who that donations to The Prize Fund and

Cincinnati Scots Highland Dancers Cincinnati Highland Dancers HD is so proud to announce that 3 he Cincinnati Scots students have passed their member kicked off their 2011 exams and are now highland season performing at C T dance instructors! Molly Calico, Shelby the Society’s annual Burns Celebration followed Matthews and Rebecca Ruehlman took by a performance at their exams during our medal testing the Ohio National weekend on January 21-22 with examiner Financial Corporation’s Lynne Erbrick. Countless hours of Foundation for the Fine studying go into preparing for this exam. Arts Fund. Look for our We also had many students take amateur next performance at the and grade exams which they all pass-ed Union Terminal Celtic with flying colors. On Sunday, January 23rd, Ms. Erbrick conducted Lands Festival, March 12th a workshop at Allegro Dance Studio. The dancers all worked really and 13th at noon in the hard and got a lot out of the session. On Sunday, January 30th, rotunda. CHD cut loose and had a roller skating party to celebrate their February will find the dancers attending the very popular Columbus success with the exams. We are now gearing Ohio weekend workshop. Dancers from OH, KY, IN, MI and PA up for competition and performance season. look forward to this high energy dance weekend which preps them We will be performing at Union Terminal for for upcoming regional competitions. Great news from the Southeast their Celtic Lands celebration on March 12 & region- the regional championship will not be held on the same 13, Deupree Retirement Home, Fairfield Celtic weekend as Kentucky Scottish Weekend this year. Plan on the Scots, in Arts Celebration and more. We are currently full force, dancing in Carrollton this year! We are excited to be at one in our fund-raising phase to raise money for of our favorite festivals. scholarships for dancers to attend camps and Our own Cincinnati Indoor Competition will be held April 9th at workshops. We will be selling “Thirty One” the Sycamore Senior Center. This is our 15th year to sponsor this event bags and we will also be doing our annual raffle with past competitors coming from 10 states and Canada. That night at the CCP&D ceilidh in April. n we will be performing at the Caledonian Band Ceilidh while serving your favorite Scottish fare. n If you would like information on these fund- raisers, would like to make a donation to our For instruction or performance information, contact Missy scholarship fund, or just want more information 3 Gentry at 859-466-7937. on our group please contact Louise Reid at 513- 444-4920 or email [email protected]. Kicking off in Spring Spring Meeting Dinner & Entertainment In Memory of Nora Kindness and in honor of her bequest, our entertainment is Country Dance by The Royal Scottish Come’on out2011 May 14th to the Final One Country Dancers Friday, April 15, 2011 Come to 2011’s Kentucky Scottish Weekend (KSW)! Come to Gen. Butler State Park in Carrollton, KY Highland Country Club and you’ll find a wee bit of Scotland. From 471, Off South US 27 For directions go to: http://mapq.st/fJvfxR in Fort Thomas, KY Cocktails: 5:30 Advance Weekend Tickets* General Admission* Dinner: 6:30 Meeting: 7:30 Adult tickets: $13.00 each (at the gate) Senior tickets: $12.00 each Adults: $15.00 $33 per person for either Herbed Roast Children (6-12) tickets: $3.00 Seniors: $14.00 Pork Tenderloin or Chicken Marsala, **SPECIAL** Family Pack Children 6-12: $3.00 rolls, salad, veggies and Cobbler. (2 adults/3 children): $25.00 *Download coupons at: (Add’l children $3.00 each) www.kyscottishweekend.org/ downloads/coupon.pdf See the inserted flyer or contact James Reilly. s From AGM Page 2 members. I am proud of that tradition and The board would like to have committee you are actually approving the feel it’s an honor to be in a society that honors membership comments on our events. fact that the cost of the event will be $75 tradition”. Gwynne G. rose to add, “I’d like to First to be discussed was St. Andrews. The per person or higher! be able to have my obituary read that I was a challenge put forth to the membership Easter Event. The President noted that member of the society”. The President brought is what changes we should or should this is a very moving and worthwhile event.. the meeting back into session. David W, “If not make to St. Andrew’s night. Many The cost is minimal and that includes the we become a 501c-3 we will be able to save people noted they really like the ‘pomp rental of a Bunny suit. Someone at the money. I fail to find the justification that this is and circumstance’ but this may require a meeting raised their hand and said they being done for some ‘political correctness’ it’s location fitting with the event! Most people would donate the rental of the costume for just the right thing to do we must stop turning seemed to want the event to be formal! the Society. We will still need a clown and people away!” The vote was taken. Motion to Well no matter what St. Andrews will some of the band! adopt the amendment was approved by greater have to go back to the Syndicate in 2011 It was noted that our website is in than a 75% majority. At this time the President and the board will ask for a committee to disrepair. Randy Clipson volunteered to suspended the meeting so that any women come up with recommendations for 2012. update and maintain the site .The meeting who wished to join could do so, these did: Duncan Moir will chair the committee! was adjourned at 10:22 PM. n Molly Calico Patrica Meek He noted, if you support him on this Gwynne Gabbard Kathy Nickles Joy Galbraith Elaine Rae Elizabeth Galbraith Gwlenys Reid Melissa Gentry Louise Reid Your Caledonian Resource Guide Ashley Gentry Kim Roeder Amanda Gentry Carol Stephenson * Lenora Gilmour Katelyn Wilshire Caledonian Society H. C. Sheriff: Stephen Watt 946-2296 Emerald Society: Jeff Winkle Patrica McGregor were the first to join. www.caledoniansociety.org 885-9700 President: Rex Wolfgang. 779-7320 The President then asked that Robert read [email protected] Country Dancing (RSCDS) Cincinnati Branch: Jill Cole 631-2429 the amendment proposal for item 2, changing Recording Secretary: James Reilly 602-9300 [email protected] Flying Ghilles: Doreen Bernstein 937-845-0310 the Dues structure. Business Secretary: Robert Reid 444-4920 Heather & Thistle: Laura Russell 614-447-0620 Amendment 2: The change to the bylaws to [email protected] www.rscdscincinnati.org would read: The language in the constitution Newsletter: Bill Parsons 476-1112 Non-RSCDS: John Southcombe 872-2222 and bylaws as amended in 2007 would be [email protected] Scholarship: Chris McLennan 531-3388 Highland Dancing and Instruction further amended to read. CHD: Louise Reid 528-5578 Proposed Text: Pipe Bands [email protected] Each member would be required to pay Caledonian Pipe Band: Rob’t. Reid 444-4920 CSHD: Melissa Gentry 859-356-5889 an annual membership fee of $30.00 except www.cccpandd.com/ [email protected] that those members who elect to receive Solo Pipers: Contact any pipe band notifications and the newsletter exclusively Radio Programs of Celtic Music by electronic mail would receive a discount Wed: WOBO* (88.7 FM) 12 - 3 p.m. 724-3939 of $10.00 annually. Members previously Hosted by Jesse Andrews Sun: WNKU (89.7 FM), 4 - 6 p.m. 859-572-6500 electing to pay the lifetime Hosted by Cathy Costello (Clip and Save!) membership amount are unaffected Sun: WOBO* (88.7 FM), 6 - 9 p.m. 724-3939 by this change. Much conversation Hosted by J. D. McEwans—Celtic Fusion followed. The President called for a *Can’t get WOBO? Go to WWW.WOBOFM.Com and stream to your PC 4 show of hands and the motion was passed, it takes effect next year. Perspectives of the Tartan... PAYBACK IS HELL!—An Opinion on Our Band Relationship

hat brings you to Society Finally, about 9:00, you march out Kilts for example. Have you priced ...we have lost functions? Surely not catered to your audience, play 15 minutes, get one of those lately? In order to pay for the once close Wfood or speeches? Probably ten seconds of applause and march kilts and drums and reeds and such, most of us come for the pipe band and off. You’d have liked to go on much the CCPB holds an annual Spring relationship dancers but if you’re not a band fan you earlier but the Society can’t let you Fling which provides most of their with the can quit reading now. because when you leave so does most annual income to cover the bills. That If you are, I hope you’ll read this of the audience. But now you can income depends on the size of the band... to the end because their continuing have that drink, although you’ll have audience and they feel that Society So don’t presence at our events is far from to pay for it. So much for Saturday members appear to stay away in etched in stone and only we, the night, but at least you got 10 seconds droves. Last year our Board attended blame the members, you and I – not the board of applause. a band meeting and said they would Board for this. – can do something about it. The Society really appreciates try to change that. But, despite their Here’s the problem and how to fix the band and the significance of its best efforts, the band didn’t see any It’s not them, it, but first some background to help contribution and tries to show it with difference. you understand. an annual $1000 grant. This is about And THAT is why we have lost the it’s US. You. Say you are a bandsman at St. the normal band charge for one once close relationship with the band Me. Andrew’s or Burns’ Night. Your performance elsewhere and will buy and could eventually lose its presence. evening goes something like this: two kilts. We also lend them two 50 Payback’s hell. You arrive at about the same year old bagpipes for their beginning So don’t blame the Board for this. time as the guests but while they are students. We wish we could do much It’s not them, it’s US. You. Me. As for drinking, dining, and being otherwise more but can’t afford to, and they me, I want to keep those guys. I don’t entertained you are buried somewhere know and understand that. It isn’t the know about you, but when I get this out of sight and, hopefully, sound. problem. year’s Spring Fling flyer I’ll be sending No dinner for you and surely no Are you surprised, then, to hear in reservations for two and really hope drink before you play. What you get that the band feels unappreciated? you will join me. And when you get to do for the next couple of hours is So much so that some of their best there, regular attendee or first time, be rehearse and tune to ensure the very performers won’t play for us now? sure and tell them “I’m a Caledonian”. best performance you can possibly Here’s the problem: I guarantee: payback is heaven. n deliver. Pipe bands have big expenses. Arch Ott—65th President Scottish Deerhound Wins Westminster Show!!

EW YORK (Reuters Life!) - A lanky Scottish deerhound known as Hickory triumphed over a fox terrier and a Portuguese water dog on Tuesday to win Best in Show at the 135th Westminster Kennel Club dog show, the first of its Nbreed and only the fifth hound to take the top prize. Hickory, a gray and white five-year-old bitch formally known as Ch Foxcliffe Hickory Wind, was a “perfect example” of the breed who exhibited “great showmanship,” said Paolo Dondina, of Monterchi, Italy, who judged the Best in Show round before a cheering capacity crowd at Madison Square Garden. Dondina, who admitted “I’m a hound person,” said choosing the deerhound as top dog in the prestigious competition with some 2,600 entrants from 49 U.S. states “is my dream. ... I’m in the heavens.” It was the first time a deerhound had ever won Westminster. “She’s in an elite group of one,” said owner Cecilia Dove. Handler Angela Lloyd said after the win “Hickory ... showed tonight like she’s never showed before.” The 85-pounder described by Lloyd as “very docile and gentle” was a clear crowd favorite among the seven best- in-show finalists, along with a bearded collie and a Pekingese. Lloyd noted, however, that the breed is also known for its “often stubborn nature. They do things their own way.” Hickory beat out a wrinkly Chinese shar pei, a black cocker spaniel, a Fox terrier and a Portuguese water dog, a breed that came to national prominence when President Barack Obama’s family chose one to live in the White House. After last year’s winner Sadie, a black Scottish terrier, Hickory’s victory came as a surprise. Las Vegas oddsmakers had put the Scottish deerhound’s odds of winning at 60-to-one. Terriers, either Fox, wire-haired or Scottish, have dominated the competition with an astounding 45 Westminster wins, nearly half the total. Best-in-show prizes have been awarded 103 times over the years. Now, with 16 best-in-shows under her belt, Hickory is retiring from the show ring, Lloyd said, adding “I’m going to miss the nose nudge in the middle of the night” after Hickory goes to live with one of her owners in Flint Hill, Virginia. Hickory now embarks on a round of appearances, including Martha Stewart’s television show, the Empire State building’s observation deck and Sardi’s restaurant. 5 Her owners have said they now hope to breed her. n GET THE GAZETTE IN EMAIL FORM, AS A E-ZINE!!! o Why should YOU as a member They raise topics on problems, not just some “freak show with of the Society get the Gazette competition, Scottish Society relations, dudes in dresses”. SNewsletter in e-mail form? bringing you views you’ll agree with —Recognition. Some festivals It benefits you... How?? and some you definitely WON’T agree place their athletics away from all Each quarter it updates you not with. other venues. only on Society news, activities, music, BUT... If you don’t contact Robert dance, current topics and calendars. Reid RIGHT NOW... You’ll MISS IT. By Q—What are the constant It also brings your The Gazette to you contacting Robert, he can send you via problems you see that constantly In information- in full-living-color. Plus, The Cyber- e-mail these stories IN COLOR and IN confront Highland Athletics? Gazette comes to you in PDF format, THEIR ENTIRETY. He can send you last —The mind-set of the “Societies” issue as well, in case you missed those heavy issues of so you can read it on the computer, or is that the Games are a less print it out and save it, if you’ve done articles. And, the USPS... won’t lose it, The Gazette, or you won’t get it after an event you important event than the clans/ so in the past. dancing/piping etc. Make sure features will Features are extended, you receive wanted to attend. And, there will be that the athletes are treated be pushed bonus features, new topics, more NO POSTAGE.. That costs your Society Scottish worldwide news, photos of dearly each year equitably. back into the recent Society Events, all in COLOR. So, again... why receive The Gazette via e-mail, as a PDF Q—What can area Scottish You also get additional pages, This Societies do to help and further email/cyber issue includes 21 pages of extra topics attachment? You gain, a by far larger this part of our culture? issue. People important to the Society. Gazette with more articles, additional In this issue alone, you’ll get the feature continuations, AND The —Embrace the Games. Realize who receive montage of photos from Burns Night, Gazette comes to you in FULL COLOR. the importance of the Games at The Gazette informative features on the history and Added value and no postal charges Festivals. for your Society to pay. And you help events of Highland Athletics. You’ll And you’ll miss this, if you don’t by mail will have a Question & Answer Session eliminate this cost! Here’s a sample of some of the get the Gazette via e-mail! How NOT receive with Athletic Directors, competitors, can you afford NOT to receive that are key players in the development Question & Answer on Highland Athletics you’ll miss IF YOU DON’T: The Gazette by e-mail in PDF features in of Highland Athletics in our Regional form. n this event. Area and in the West. From KSW, Glasgow KY Scottish Games, OH Q—What is the chief complaint you Bill Parsons—Editor hear from the athletes themselves? This issue is Scottish Games, Treasure Valley ID For more information on the one of those Highland Games, and a representative —For my games its usually the weather PDF emailed version, email of The Scottish American Athletic —Budget is a big problem, need more [email protected] or call situations. Association. exposure as an athletic event and him at 513-444-4920.

Go beyond this The Perfect KSW & teaser cartoon!!! Heavy Event Get The Gazette Wear*** in email form... And see all 3 features about Highland Athletics, a Q&A, T-Shirts and Resources for it. Contact Robert $264 colo shirt Reid TODAY at Includes postage! 513-444-4920 AVAILABLE SIZES: L, XL, XXL And he’ll send ***Indicate address, sizes, quantity , style and TOTAL it to you! to Robert or CALL!

Contact or send payment to: Robert Reid 6052 Delicious Asha Ct. NOW, B4 Loveland OH 45140 513-444-4920 Make checks payable to: they’re Caledonian Society of Cincinnati gone! A History of the Scottish Events

by Charles Black

nfortunately, there is little the oldest continuing athletic tradition written reference to the heavy in the world, and indeed it seems Uevents until comparatively that the Celtic sports are rivaled in recent times. Thus, the early history this respect only by Japanese sumo of these events is largely a matter wrestling, which is descended from of speculation. The hammer has the Chinese wrestling traditions dating richest early history, and this was to at least 1000 B.C., though the covered in a previous article; “History first accurate reference to a Japanese of the Hammer Throw” Many of the sumo bout is dated to 52 B.C. quotes in that article also referred to Most references to the heavy casting the bar and putting the stone events since that time are English and (or weight) and these will not be refer to English festivals, since literacy According to a German reference repeated here. was relatively uncommon in Scotland. quoted in Redmond, at the games in The earliest date for the heavy These references are therefore rather 1332, “a heavy rock was fetched from events is contained in the Irish ‘Book lacking as to their ability to tell us the bed of a mountain stream, and the of Leinster”, which was written in what was happening in Scotland, hammer was a huge club with an iron the twelfth century A.D. This book though they do give us valuable head.” describes the Tailteann Games held at information. It should be noted that All of the heavy events, along Telltown, County Meath from 1829 by the time that written references with many other sports such as tennis, B.C. until at least 554 B.C., and in started to appear, heavy events football, and skittles (a precursor of a revived version until 1166 A.D. were commonplace throughout all bowling), were the object of periodic Included in the events were stone of Britain. The Border Games from royal bans, such as those of Edward throwing, pole vaulting, high jumping, lowland Scotland and the Lakeland III (reigned from 1327 to 1377), who the geal-ruith (triple jumping), the Games from northwest England were especially prohibited weight putting. gaelbolga (throwing the dart), and very similar to the Highland Games, These bans were either to encourage the roth-cleas (the wheel feat, which and have continued at least until the practice of military skills, or due ...the modern consisted of spinning around and the recent past, though they haven’t to Puritanism, whose proponents Olympic throwing either an axle with an maintained the popularity that the felt that sport was an immoral waste attached wheel or a single spoke with Scottish Games have. Heavy events of time. It should be noted that Games are the wheel hub attached). also had a continuing tradition in several monarchs, such as Edward II directly Since the ‘Book of Leinster’ was Ireland that lasted into the present (reigned 1307-1327) and Henry VIII written so long after the supposed century. The Olympic hammer and (1509-1547), far from considering descended origin of these games, the descriptions two-handed weight throws were these events to be at the expense of from the have to be accepted advisedly. dominated by the “Irish Whales”, military skill, promoted them as being Obviously, 16 centuries of oral brawny Irish immigrants to America, essential training and engaged in Scottish tradition can distort facts to a great until the 1930’s. sporting activities themselves. games... and degree. The events are described The Braemar games are James VI, the son of Mary Queen in enough detail so as to lend an supposedly derived from the contests of Scots, became the king of Scotland not from the impression of authenticity, however. introduced by King Malcolm in 1567 at the age of 1. He later wrote ancient Greek These games predated the ancient Canmore in 1040 A.D. These events to his son in the ‘Basilikon Doron’; Greek Olympics and this fact argues included a hill race, but it is uncertain “The exercises that I would have tradition as against those who suggest that the whether heavy events were included. you use, although but moderately, Celtic events were borrowed from the In twelfth century London, open not making a craft of them, are is commonly Greeks via the Roman conquerors of spaces were provided so that the running, leaping, wrestling, fencing, supposed. Britain. Greek sport did include events populace could practice “leaping, dancing, and playing at the caitch, similar to those listed above, but they wrestling, casting of the stone, and or tennise, archerie, palle-malle (in appear to be an entirely separate playing with the ball”. which a wooden ball was hit by a tradition. The heavy evens were The town of Ceres in the county mallet though an iron ring at the carried to Scotland with the migration of Fife held a games to commemorate end of an alley), and such like other of the Celtic tribes from Ireland. King Robert Bruce’s victory at fair and pleasant field games.” He 7 The ‘Book of Leinster’ is the basis Bannockburn in 1314. These games discouraged hammer throwing, which for the claim that the heavy events are have been held regularly since. he apparently considered dangerous to spectators (he must have heard of Alexander Gyfford accidentally killing his son in 1566, as reported in the ‘History of the Hammer’). In 1603 James VI became James I of England and Scotland upon the Act of Union. In 1617, James issued a ‘Book of Sports’ which permitted certain sports after church. James’ son Charles I ruled from 1625 until 1649, when he was beheaded after the puritan Oliver Cromwell led a women running and competing “for shifts or she-shirts”. successful civil war. Charles I had republished the ‘Book of Sports’ The games in Scotland grew in number and popularity throughout in 1633 and this was a chief count brought against him at his trial. the centuries, but received a mortal blow with the Act of Proscription In 1660, Charles II, son of Charles I was restored to the throne and in 1746 which followed the unsuccessful rebellion of 1745. This sportsmen could breath a sigh of relief. act outlawed Scottish customs, dress and gatherings. The act was Scotland maintained its independence from English rule appealed in 1782, whereupon Highland games began to be revived. between 1314 and 1603, so English sporting bans would have The revival was greatly accelerated in 1822 by the appearance of been unenforceable north of the border. Scotland had by this time King George IV in Edinburgh dressed in Scottish garb. This event felt the influence of John Know, the Calvinistic religious reformer, started a fad for all things Scottish, and many of the things regarded who died in 1572. From his time onward, sports and games were as “traditional’ at the Scottish games date from this period, including considered somewhat disreputable in Scotland, a legacy which the vast majority of tartan patterns. has not entirely disappeared, though in the words of Shearman, The first Highland games in the United States occurred when the these statutes “appear to have been more honored in the breach Highland Society of New York held its ‘first sportive meeting’ in 1836. than in the observance.” ‘The Scots Lawes and Acts’ of 1572 Many ‘Caledonian Clubs’ were formed in subsequent years, and one banned many sports, which were said to interfere with church of the first actions of most of these clubs was to hold a Highland attendance and archery practice. games. The Caledonian Club of San Francisco held its first games in The precursors of the heavy events came to be commonplace 1866, and this is the oldest continuously running annual games in the at all sorts of rural fairs and gatherings. Burton in his ‘Anatomy of United States, with the 125th jubilee being celebrated in 1990. Melancholy’, written between 1620 and 1640, described country By the middle of the nineteenth century, track and field was recreations that took place at may-games, feasts, fairs and wakes. becoming an organized sport in England. The first meets were held Amongst many other pastimes, he includes pitching of bars and at universities. The Royal Military Academy in Woolwich held hurling as “common recreations of the country folks”. athletic meets from 1849 until 1853. Events were started at Oxford The London ‘Spectator’ described such a ‘country wake’ in in 1850 and Cambridge in 1857 and continue to this day. The first the September 4, 1711 edition. This festival appears to have taken intercollegiate meet took place at Oxford in 1864. The first non place in Bath, England. The village green was “ covered with a scholastic track club was the Mincing Athletic Club of London which promiscuous multitude of all ages and both sexes, divided into was organized in 1863, and the first true international meet took several parties, all of them endeavoring to show themselves in place at Travers Island, New York in 1895 between the London and those exercises wherein they excelled.” New York athletic clubs. The author described games of cudgel-playing, football and These early English meets generally had no field events until wrestling, and went on to say that, “the young maids who were the 1860’s. The hammer throw was introduced into the Oxford and not lookers on at these exercises, were themselves engaged in Cambridge programs in 1866, but as late as 1887, Shearman says some diversion; and upon my asking a farmer’s son of my own that it, along with weight putting, “has never taken root at any other parish what he was gazing at with so much attention. He told athletic centre in England’:, but “the sport is very popular in Scotland, me that he was seeing Betty Welch”, whom I knew to be his and has also taken firm root in Ireland.” He also mentioned that caber sweetheart, pitch a bar.” “is very popular in Scotland. But has never found favour in England.” The prizes were hats for the men and smocks for the women, In contrast, the first track meet in the United States, at the Olympic and the prize “is always hung up by the person who gets it in one Athletic Club of San Francisco on May 5, 1860, had only field events. of the most .conspicuous parts of the house, and looked upon by In both England and the Eastern United States, professional the whole family as something redounding much more to their running, including six day races, had become very popular. honor than a coat-of-arms” One young fellow carried “an air of Gambling was rife at these events, as it was at boxing and rowing importance in his looks. For he and his a ancestors had won so events. This ultimately led to the demise of these events as “ropers” many hats that his parlor looked like a haberdasher’s shop”. As for blatantly threw races in order to win bets for their backers. the women, the author said that “nothing is more usual than for a This and other moral issues led to the rise of amateur sport. nimble-footed wench to get a husband at the same time she wins The organizers of the Scottish Games, on the other hand. Saw no a smock.” immorality in the awarding of prize money. Although the Highland The editor went on to defend these festivals as a worthy way Games were no more professional than was track and field, in the for the stoutest and healthiest men and women to meet and wed. sense that there has never been enough prize money to constitute Thus improving the constitution of the nation’s populace. a living wage, the two viewpoints were seen as incompatible. So The foregoing reference establishes the early participation the two sports went their separate ways from the late nineteenth of women in the heavy events. A tradition which is only lately onward. This may in retrospect be seen as a boon to our sport, as it being reestablished in the western United States. Nor is this has allowed the traditional flavor of the Scottish heavy events to last reference a mere curiosity. Though women of the wealthy classes to this day. were restricted in their sporting ambitions, Guttmann cites many AUTHOR’S NOTE: This article, as with my other historical articles, was compiled chiefly from references to common women competing in all sports, secondary sources. Although I have necessarily used my judgment in determining what to include, I such as football, running and field events alongside did not, in general, look up original sources, so I may have unwittingly passed on errors. My purpose is to give a brief historical summary and not to discover new information or advance new ideas. of men. It also describes women’s competitions at the Readers interested in learning more about these subjects are encouraged to read the sources listed in Cotswold Olimpick Games, which were held between the bibliography. 8 1612 and 1852. Shearman also cites many instances of tAmateur classes at the Highland Games were not seen until well into the 20th century. When they were instituted to enable those athletes on university and international teams to maintain their eligibility. Amateur divisions started to be introduced to American games in the early 1980’s2 , in order to encourage newcomers as well as for eligibility reasons. Now that track and field athletes in this country can openly receive prize and endorsement money. Amateur classes are chiefly regarded as ability groupings, rather than being based on monetary considerations. In the years following the Civil War (1865 to about 1880), the Caledonian Games in the United States were in their heyday, with large crowds coming to watch the events and substantial profits being made. About this same time, improved transportation led to the establishment of a ‘circuit’ for athletes in Scotland. For the ’first time, athletes attended games far from their own homes.’ This led to the first true professional athletes who derived a substantial part of their income from the games. These men established new standards of excellence in the heavy events, and a number of them, such as Donald Dinnie and A.A. Cameron, traveled the games, including those of the Caledonian Club of San Francisco in world to compete. Earning great sums of money by doing so. Santa Rosa, which has opened the doors to even more participants. As track and field became established as a sport in this country. A number of games in recent years have also included a master’s It took much of the interest away from the games, which went competition (usually for age 40 and over in the East and 50 and over into a decline for nearly a century. Though a number of games in the West), with the Santa Rosa games also introducing this category continued to be held. The athletics became a smaller and smaller in 1991. portion of the program. In the Highlands of Scotland, track and Incidentally, it is worth adding that the modern Olympic Games field has always remained in the shadow of the games, which still are directly descended from the Scottish games and English track include the running and jumping events that have long ago passed meets (which were themselves inspired by the Highland Games from the games in the United States. and other folk sports), and not from the ancient Greek tradition as The number of games in Scotland has decreased in this is commonly supposed. In the years before he founded the modern century, as small local games have declined in the face of the Olympics in 1896. Baron de Couberlin visited the “Much Wenlock public’s ability to travel to larger regional ones, but the popularity Olympic Games” in Scotland and the “Cotswold Olimpick Games” of the gatherings continues, despite hard times during the World in England. Not only were these festivals already using the Olympic Wars and interwar years. name, the program of events was borrowed from these festivals for the After World War II, there was a revival in Scottish games in this track and field portion of the Athens Olympics, with discus throwing country, with a number of new games being formed and some old the only ancient Greek event revived for the occasion (Greek style games being revived. The emphasis was on piping and dancing. javelin throwing was added in 1908). However, with the heavy events either being absent, or being relegated to a small demonstration. ABOUT THE AUTHOR—Charles Black is a graduate student in the In the 1970’s, the heavy events saw a return towards their Department of Physical Education at the University of California former prominence in the United States which led to the in Davis. California, where he is studying biomechanics and appearance of such great athletes as Brian Oldfield, Ed McComas, neuromuscular control of movement. He is currently engaged in Fred Vaughn, and Keith Tice. The 1980’s saw continued growth and research of feedback in javelin training. He is the shot and discus strengthening of the heavy events with the introduction of many coach at Dixon High School, where he was named as Coach of the new games, most with IS full program of heavy events. For the first Year in 1991. He has competed in over 90 Highland Games since time, an American athlete, Jim McGoldrick, established himself 1981, most recently winning the Western States Amateur Athletic as being able to consistently beat the best that Scotland could Championship in Denver, Colorado an August 9, 1991. He coaches produce. several Scottish Games athletes and is a board member of the Scottish At the beginning of the 1970’s, we may be seeing a peaking American Athletic Association. He was instrumental in getting the of this growth, as increased overhead expenses have seen jumps women’s and master’s categories introduced into the Caledonian Club in gate prices and slimmer dollar returns for many games. Though of San Francisco games for 1991. n there are new games every year, just as many seem to fold for financial reasons. On the other hand, the 1The women’s aggregate trophy at the U.S. Heavy Events number of athletes continues to grow, and this indicates Championship is named in honor of this same Betty Welch. a healthy state of affairs; 1991 has seen the introduction 2The Caledonian Club of San Francisco first split into professional and 9 of women’s heavy events at most of the California amateur classes in 1976. Part 2- The Individual Events

The Stone Put field used a 7 foot square (later This may be true, but it would seem Obviously, men have always contested changed to a circle) from the mid that these events were relatively against each other in heaving of nineteenth century onwards. It may be uncommon until the late nineteenth rocks. The modern tradition of stone that the extra distance stemmed from a century. Programs and lists of events throwing (Gaelic clach neairt) is said feeling that the increased possibility of from the early nineteenth century to be derived from the tradition of the slipping on grass necessitated it. do not list the weight throws. These clach cuid fir or “manhood stone” Many games in Scotland include events seem to have been uncommon which had to variously be lifted to putting of 16 and 22 pound balls during the course of Donald Dinnie’s waist height, lifted to the top of a low (shots) rather than stones though there career, which lasted from 1853 to wall, or thrown a certain distance to has been an effort to reintroduce stone 1910. This contention gains support prove one’s masculinity. putting. In Australia, the events are 16 from Webster’s estimate of only 300 and 26 pound shot (these events are victories in weight throwing for Dinnie always contested with the glide, as few as compared to 2000 for hammer games outside California and Colorado throwing, 1800 for putting the stone, require the Braemar style). and 1400 for caber tossing. Records other than games’ records The weights themselves are derived are obviously difficult to maintain in from scale weights, which were used these events, with the large variations on balance scales to weigh grain and seen in the weights and characters potatoes. The weights of 28 and 56 of the stones. American records are pounds derive from the English unit kept for 16, 23 and 25 Pound stones. of a “stone” which equals 14 pounds. Oddly enough for a time the 25 Thus we use 2 stone and 4 stone pound stone record was ahead of weights (the latter is often referred to In any case this event was included the 20 pound stone record as Brian as a ‘half hundredweight’ in Scotland). The from the very early days of organized Oldfield had put the large Fergus This tradition continues with the evolution athletic competition. As with other stone 46’5” In 1979, but had never introduction of the 14 pound or one events’ rules were entirely a local competed in a 20 pound stone where stone weight for women. Scale weights of Highland option, with various locales restricting Tom Johnson set the record at 45’9” were either a rectangular block with a Heavy the event by allowing only one hand, in 1980. In 1984 Jud Logan put the recessed handle or a block with a ring eliminating or limiting the run up, 20 pound stone over 50’ at Ligonier handle. The latter were much preferred Events marking a scratch line over which the a record which Paul Ferency raised for throwing as it is almost impossible competitor must not step, et cetera. to over 51’ the following year. When to throw the former without skinning has been This tradition is echoed today with the Oldfield returned to the games in the the hand or pinching the fingers (this is constantly persistence of “open’’ and “Braemar” late 1980’s he raised the record for a personal testimony: my first practice stones at the various Games. the 20 pounder still further. Oldfield`s weights were 25 and 50 pound scale moving Many early references call this 1979 put of 63’1” in the 16 pound still weights of this type). Obviously, the event “casting of the stone.” In the stands as a world record. addition of the chain leads to longer from nation nineteenth century, It is generally With the recent rise of ‘strong man’ throws, as do the various handle to nation, referred to as the “putting of the competitions In Britain and Scotland shapes and round or bell-shaped weight.” Pearson contends that ‘put’ under the Influence of David Webster, weights that are now seen. and culture is “an old Scottish verb meaning the noted chronicler and promoter to culture; to thrust.” This term came to be of strength sport there has come the used when the throwing action was revival of the clach cuid fir, first with possibly one restricted to require keeping the the 268 pound Inver Stone in 1959 weight on the neck and not letting (Bill Kazmaier pressed this stone over of Scotland’s the elbow lead the hand. Pearson his head!)1 and with the McGiashen greatest also says that a “weight” is an old stones; huge, perfectly spherical stones English measure equaling 16 pounds that are lifted and carried. Only Jon legacies. that is the weight of the modern shot Pall Sigmarsson of Iceland, a true in track and field. The term ‘shot,’ of descendent of the ancient Viking course, derives from the occasional strongmen has successfully managed substitution of a cannon ball for a the largest of these stones. Which stone from the middle ages onward. weighs in excess of 300 pounds. The original rules for weight Donald Dinnie was the best at the throwing required a standing throw shot out In the late nineteenth century, The Weight Throws with no foot movement. The American with a best put of 49 feet 6 Inches David Webster says that the record for the 56 pound weight The origin of the 7 and a half foot weights “were the original throwing throw. One handed from a stand, 10 approach allowed in the Scottish implements at the Highland Games was 26 feet 3 1/4 inches, set in 1884 games is unclear. English track and along with the big sledge hammers.” by C.A.J. Queckberner at the A.A.U. championships. He also won the ‘casting the bar’ and so is English in Sir Robert Dover’s Cotswold Games. It national championships in 1885 1887. origin. It is possible that the Gaelic is difficult to tell what he is doing, but it In 1888 the American rules were word did in fact travel from the looks like he is throwing a staff of about changed to allow the use of two hands athletic to the domestic use of a pole eight foot in length with one heavy end and a 7 foot circle. Matt McGrath rather than the other way around. straight into the air with one hand. The threw the 56 pound weight 33 feet 1 But there seems to be no evidence same illustration shows a hammer thrower inch in 1910 from a stand with both to support either theory over the swinging a hammer with one hand. This by Charles Black hands. He also, won the hammer other. Cuddon says that the word is may indicate that a one-handed sledge throw in the 1912 Olympic games Scandinavian, but this is unlikely. In (which would have been 6 to 8 pounds) with a throw of 179 feet 7 ‘1/8 inches. Scandinavia today, caber tossing is was thrown, and this may explain the long The Scottish rules were also known as sdågstørtning (from stáng distance of 100 feet 3 1/2 inches ‘without changed to include a run-up, but ‘pole’ and størta ‘to throw’). run or follow’ that was reported. they allowed a more generous nine Strype in his 1720 edition of Stow’s feet, while still requiring the use of ‘Survey of London’ mentions “pitching the one hand. Irish rules were the same bar’ as a lower class activity. as the American rules. When the 56 The Vikings engaged in tossing of pound weight throw was included small tree trunks for distance, probably in the Olympic games of 1904 and in a fashion very similar to modern caber 1920, the two handed style with 7 foot tossing. This event is still contested yearly circle was allowed. P.J. McDonald of at the Gotland games in Sweden. Given the United States won in 1920 with a the heavy influence of the Vikings on throw of 36 feet 11 1/2 inches. The 56 Scotland in terms of language and culture, pound weight throw is still included it is very possible that caber tossing was as a record event in the United States, There are many references to actually introduced by these northern along with the much more 35 pound “casting of the bar, but there seem raiders and traders, though this suggestion weight throw. The use of two hands to be few descriptions of just what makes many a Scot’s blood boil! leads to a very different technique that consisted of. Likely this term was Webster also mentions traditions of than with one handed throwing, and used to describe a great variety of caber-like activities in France, Italy, and greater distances as we(l. Lance Deal different activities, despite Webster’s Germany. set the world record in the 35 pound contention that the character of the Cuddon gives the following weight with a throw of 79’1 1” in event has remained quite unaltered description of the modern caber toss; 1991. Hamish Davidson. Geoff Capes over the centuries”. Bars have “The Scottish Games Association have and Francis Brebner have all thrown variously been “cast”, “pitched’, a rule that a caber should be of a length the fantastic distance of 90 feet in the “spurned” or “tossed”. and weight beyond the power of the best Scottish 28 pound weight throw. Casting of the bar has been athlete to turn-which is obviously absurd, The weight for height originally variously described as a spinning more especially as there is another rule consisted of tying to touch a barrel throw of a wagon axle or spoke (as that a new caber, never. Tossed, may be head of three foot diameter which in the Tailteann Games wheel feat), shortened if none of the athletes can toss was suspended above the throwing flipping a heavy iron bar over its it. And there is another rule that. Once area and measured to the bottom of end with the foot, throwing an Iron tossed, a caber should never be cut. So the barrel head. These rules were still bar for height or distance, or the hermetic and contradictory are these rules in effect as of 1942, with the “weight modern version of throwing a tree that it is a wonder that any caber has ever over the bar” considered a separate trunk for accuracy or distance. It been tossed at all. But they have.’ One and unofficial event. The weight over was probably ALL these things and can’t expect a Sassenach to appreciate the the bar obviously produced lower more at various places and times, subtleties of the event. heights than the weight for height. In and we will probably never know David Webster, who has probably 1942, P. Donovan held the American just when the caber toss as we now seen more top class throwing than bests in both events with 16 feet 11 know it originated. There is evidence anybody else, lists Grant Anderson, Geoff 1/4 inches in the weight for height from photographs and drawings that Capes, Bill Anderson and Jim McGoldrick and 15 feet 2 S/8 inches in the weight this modem style dates back to at as the greatest caber tossers ever. over the bar (the rules allowed two least the beginning of the nineteenth As elusive as is the true origin of hands to be used). The procedures century, but there is little evidence the caber is the answer to the oft-asked otherwise were identical to those for greater antiquity than that. question of whether the caber derived used today. The weight for height has In ‘The Three Kings’ sons’ a from some practical skill. Answers to this been dominated by Americans since romance from the early fifteenth question are entirely speculative, but World War II. Kevin Brady. Geoff century, It is said of a certain knight. in the fashion of the modern Highland Capes, Paul Ferency, Bill Kazmaier, Jim “The king for to assail him made games. This never seems to stop people McGoldrick and Brian Oldfield have justes and tumies, and no man did from coming up with them anyway. The all tossed over 17’ with one hand. so well as he in running. playing at best stories I’ve heard are the one about the pame, shotyng, and castyng of tossing logs across streams to make The Caber Toss— the barre, ne found he his maister”. bridges, though it would be much easier This is of course THE heavy event to Though this account is fiction, we to stand the log up and let it fall over the the majority of spectators, but the know that “castyng of the barre” river (this story simply perpetuates the history of the caber is unfortunately found favor amongst certain English addle-pated image that some would thrust highly elusive. and Scottish royalty, as noted on the Celtic race) and one originated The term ‘caber’ supposedly previously. by Mike Tabor who speculated that the derives from the Gaelic caber which A 1636 illustration from Matthew skill could be used to add wood to a refers to a rafter or pole. Some have Walbancke’s ‘Annalia Dubrensia’ fire against a castle wall by tossing logs 11 shows a man “spurning” a bar at across a moat. though enemy archers argued that ‘caber’ is a contraction of would seem to make this tough skill sheaf is considered a sport in its own the ‘Dinnie Stones’, which weigh a more difficult! If you don’t like these right, with contestants training hard to total of 785 pounds, across the width answers, make up one of your own, perfect their skills at this single event. of the Bridge of Potarch, which crosses everyone else does! the river Dee near Kincardine O’NeiI David Webster has recently in Scotland. The stones, which lay for introduced to Scotland the ‘caber Discontinued Events many years behind the hotel at Potarch, for height’ in which a small caber Along with the events that we now had iron rings set in them for tethering is tossed over a rope or banner. This consider heavy events, there were horses. Dinnie used these rings as event may resemble an earlier version many other events contested at handles to carry the stones. Webster of ‘casting the bar’. eighteenth and nineteenth century says that events of this type. Were The Heavy games in Scotland and America. Light common in earlier times, with heavy The Sheaf Toss events, such as running and jumping, milk churns or logs being used. Events were were popular at these games, as they In Canada this event was initially banned on- This event is not contested in Califor- still are in Scotland, though they have nia, or much in Scotland, it is popular been given over to track and field and-off due in the eastern U.S. and elsewhere. meets in North America. Included in The sheaf toss consists of throwing a these light events were such oddball to religious bag of straw (usually 16 pounds in the things as three-legged races. Sack shifts in U.S., but often 8 pounds elsewhere) races, wheelbarrow races and fat- over a bar with a pitchfork. It is scored man races. Records for sack racing England and exactly as is the weight for height. and three-legged racing were still Scotland’s This skill is clearly derived from listed in the 1942 A.A.U. Handbook. the practical skill of tossing sheaf’s of Somebody will ask. So here are some leadership. tied-up grain onto a wagon or into examples: 100 yard sack race- 1 4 a barn loft. Having grown up in the 1/5 seconds in 1929, 100 yard sack Seems, Mr. Amish country of Ohio, I have often race over ten 18 inch hurdles- 21 called the “Bridge’s” or “Burlington” marveled at not only the impressive 1/4 seconds in 1882, 100 yard three- Cromwell heights that these farmers could toss walk after Jack Bridges of Burlington legged race- 11 seconds in 1909. who introduced the event at the 1969 was a bit their wheat sheaf’s, but also at the There were also odd events that accuracy they needed to ensure that Burlington Highland Games with would fall under the heading of heavy weights of 160 pounds. When it was of a party- the sheaf stayed on the top of the load events. These included spear throwing, where it was directed. introduced to Scotland several years pooper sword fighting, cudgel-play (a cudgel later, it was called the “Fergus Walk” is a long stick used as a club), and after the games in Ontario, Canada lifting a boulder of one hundred where the Scottish athletes had first seen twelve pounds (a hundredweight) over it. Bridges himself called it the ‘Farmer’s a five foot high bar which was likely Walk’, which it is called in North to cause “the rupture of blood-vessels America. Webster says that the walk for or breaking of backs”. At the Inverness distance is known as the “Fergus Walk” games of 1822 there was mention of in Scotland, while variations such as the dismemberment of three cows, team races and speed events are called felled and stunned by a sledgehammer. the “Farmers Walk”. With the bare hands. At a payment of The weights in Canada are usually five guineas a joint, which took over 185 pounds each, though some sets four hours to accomplish. No thanks, I are closer to 200 pounds a piece. Jon Carl Braun, Larry Satchwell, and think I’ll stick to the farmers walk! Warren Trask have all thrown the 16 Pall Sigmarsson of Iceland has walked pound sheaf over 31 feet high in the 850 feet with two 750 pound oxygen last year. The record for the 8 pound The Farmer’s Walk cylinders. Dan Markovic of Toronto has walked 427 feet with 400 pounds. n sheaf is 64 feet 10 1/4 inches by Trond Speaking of the farmer’s walk, where Ulleborg-Nege of Norway. did this recent introduction to the In Australia and New Zealand, as games come from? It is clearly inspired well as some European countries, the by Donald Dinnie’s feat of carrying

ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY and expressions, as well as to the better known interesting read., and has interesting historical historical section. Hard to find, but a superb read. Addison (ed.) (September 4, l711) The Spectator, popular sports. references. Webster. David (‘1973) ‘Scottish Highland London, England- This daily newspaper devoted Donaldson, Emily Ann(1986) ‘The Scottish Redmond, Gerald (1971) ‘The Scottish Games Games’, Reprographia, Edinburgh, Scotland- This a three page issue to “a letter from a country Highland Games in America’, Pelican Publishing, in Nineteenth Century America”, Associated is the quintessential work on the Scottish games. correspondent describing a “country wake”. Gretna, Louisiana- Good Scottish history University Presses, Cranbury, New Jersey- Webster is unquestionably the leading historian Amateur Athletic Union of the United States chapter by Webster, and another on American Excellent. well researched work on the origin of the Highland Games, as well as being a (1942) “Official Track and Field Handbook”, history. Detailed account of the founding of the and early heyday of the games. Redmond is THE leading promoter of strength sport. A must read. Amateur Athletic Union, New York, New York- Grandfather Mountain games and of the post authority on this period of Caledonian sporting Webster. David? (1985) “Manual for the Scottish Contains rules and records of the time, including World War II revival of games in America. Redmond, Gerald (1988) “Toward Modern Heavy Events Training School”, Fergus, Ontario. many discontinued events. Very interesting. Guttmann, Allen (1991) ‘Women’s Sports-A Revival of the Olympic Games: The Various Canada Probably compiled or written by David Black, Charles (1990) “Amateurism In modern history’, Columbia University Press, New York. “Pseudo-Olympics” of the 19th Century” in Chu, Webster, who coordinated the school. Good Sport”, unpublished report, University of New York- Excellent work, just published. Well- Donald and Seagrave, Jeffrey O. “The Olympic section on rules of the various events. California. Davis, California- Originally written known author Guttmann is one of the few that Games in Transition”. Human Kinetics Books. Webster. David. ed. (1990) Program for the for a Sociology in Sport class, it contains many have covered the history of women in sport Champaign. Illinois- Seagrave and Chu’s book World Highland Heavy Events Championships, references not cited here. farther back than the late nineteenth century. contains many excellent articles on all aspects of Glasgow, Scotland-Lots of interesting information Cuddon, J.A. (1979) ‘The McNab, Tom (1980) ‘The Complete Book of the modern Olympics. Well worth reading. about the traditional events and modern strong- International Dictionary Track and Field’, Ward Lock Limited, London, Shearman. Montague(1887) “Athletics and man events. of Sports and Games’, England- An insightful treatment of the sport, with Football”. Longmans, Green, and Co., London, Wegener, Robert B. (1924) “Track and Field Schocken Books, New York, excellent and interesting historical sections. England- A reference used by nearly everyone Athletics”, A.S.Barnes and Co., New York, New New York- Superb 870 page Pearson, G.F.D. (1963) “Athletics”, Thomas since its publication. Excellent descriptions of York-Interesting glimpse at the state of track and 12 English work with references Nelson and Sons, London, England- The book is track and field events and track meets in the field In the 1920’s. Brief history chapter largely to many obscure folk sports quaint and technically out of date, but makes an late nineteenth century along with an excellent taken from Shearman. How much do we as Caledonians know about Highland Athletics... Not enough. This Question & Answer feature, was a way to reinforce Highland Athletics. Bing Ewen, Kerry Overfelt, Jen Gempler, Kevin Anderson, Eric Ettesvold and Dave Garman for took time out of their busy schedules to complete a questionnaire. The questionnaire gives us a current view of Highland Athletics and how we can help each other as part of Scottish Culture to succeed. On Highland Athletics with Bing Ewen: He is the Athletic Director for Kentucky Scottish Weekend*, and has a 27 year history of managing them..

Q—How long have you been involved with Highland Athletics? interests and become a Highland athlete? In KY? Are there student A—Twenty-eight years Camps for beginners? A—There are no camps that I know of. The Kentucky Scottish Weekend has always welcomed first timers. Q—Did you participate in any of the events? If so what? I particularly want new people to try our events. Our competitors A—No more. help new folks and from time to time we have clinics. Q—How long have you been involved in the management of the Q—What and how do Highland Athletics receive funding and if Games you currently over see? A—Twenty-seven years so from who? A—KSW is all amateur. The funding for the judges Q—What problems do you see in making the general public comes from the general admission paid by the weekend attendees. aware of Highland Athletics? A—Most folks don’t know about Clan Ewen sponsors the meals and prizes. Most games provide the Highland gatherings. funding for the events. A few have commercial sponsors for the events Q—What kind of person do you see coming out and learning Highland Athletics? A—They typically have a sports background Q—What can area Scottish Societies do to help and further this in track or football; although I did not have either. part of our culture? A—No Reply. Q—In recruiting for Highland dance, and music we see constant Q—Is Highland Athletics solely a male competition? A—To programs developed for these areas. Is there a way to recruit the have a sanctioned women’s event you must have at least three younger athletes for Highland Athletics? A—The nature of the competitors. KSW has had four women’s events. When women events makes it questionable for young bodies. We encourage young compete there are some weight adjustments. At the end of the people to help manage the events. When they get big enough they events the athlete of the day is determined by points. In theory a can play. woman could compete with the men and win the overall for the day. Q—What are the constant problems you see that constantly Q—If left up to you how would you approach recruitment of confront Highland Athletics? A—The events tear up the field so young athletes to become more interested in not only athletics but most folks don’t have a good place to train. (Public Parks don’t like also Scottish culture? A—I would probably introduce school the holes and the danger.) Equipment is not easy to come by. children to the Scottish culture about three times during their time in school. The romance of Scotland lends itself to educational segments Q—Is there a way to expose area high school/college programs to in the curriculum. World history, poetry, music, and the love of seminars or displays of Highland Athletics? A—It might be done; learning fit right into what a school should do. The third segment it would take someone to organize and promote. should be in high school to get the athletes. Q—What is the chief complaint you hear from the athletes Q—What future do you see for Highland Athletics in 20 years? themselves? A—For my games its usually the weather. A—Methods, training , and records will change but there will Q—We see successful programs for recruitment in the dance and always be the “Hey ya’ll, watch this” factor among young men. music areas should Scottish Societies take a similar approach to Q—What National/State Organizations would you refer interest younger elementary age athletes? A—See #6. to? A—A web search for Highland Athletics will list national/ Q—We see sometimes at Highland Competitions wrestling, regions associations. KSW is a member of the Mid-Atlantic Scottish and weight lifting; should Highland Athletics embrace the area of Athletics Association. The group sanctions games records, organizes Highland Running? A—The tradition of the Heavy events vs the the rules for competition, coordinates registrations, and determines Light events comes from the fact that the games used to have track the national standing of competitors. n and field events in conjunction with the traditional heavy weight events. Running and cross country were part of the games. Heavy athletes and Light athletes train differently so there is not too much *For more information on Kentucky Scottish Weekend Heavy Events cross over. or how to participate go to kyscottishweekend.org, email: bpewen@ fewpb.net

Q—Say… we as Scots are introduced to high school/college age individual who is interested in 13 learning/participating in the Highland Competitions, who do we as Societies refer them to… to further their

On Highland Athletics with Kerry Overfelt: Who is the Athletic Director for Glasgow Kentucky Highland Games*, and a Heavy Event Competitor.

Q—How long have you been involved with Highland Athletics? athletes? A—Yes ..I did a Boy Scout Seminar a few months ago A—Involved for 12 years in highland games and it was great these guys loved it. You could do the same at elementary level, with a day of games, with smaller implements and Q—Did you participate in any of the events? If so what? the like. A—I participated in numerous events, but mainly the Glasgow Highland Games and the Kentucky Scottish Weekend. Q—We see sometimes at Highland Competitions wrestling, and weight lifting; should Highland Athletics embrace the area of Q—How long have you been involved in the management of the Highland Running? A—Yes. Anything that brings more people to Games you currently over see? A—I have been Athletic Director at the festival is good. We are doing a bean bag toss competition at our Glasgow for 4 years and just started last year running games, actually games this year, also known as Cornhole in OH. I think the more put together a full game this year in Bardstown KY and Wickland things you can involve at the festival, the better the exposure... golf... Highland Games Festival on 3rd weekend in August. 5k-run... wrestling... children’s athletics. Q—What problems do you see in making the general public Q—Say… we as Scots are introduced to high school/college age aware of Highland Athletics? A—Problem is getting the word individual who is interested in learning/participating in the Highland out. No one knows what a Highland Games or Festival is all about. Competitions, who do Societies refer them to… to further their There’s not enough media exposure and its not main stream. This interests and become a Highland athlete? In KY? Are there student needs better marketing. Camps for beginners? NASGAWEB.COM is a good place to send Q—What kind of person do you see coming out and learning them. That way, they can find athletes near them and... I don’t know Highland Athletics? A—Mostly guys that have been involved with anyone that would turn down someone who wants to learn the athletics in their earlier life. Track & Field guys for sure, but a lot of games. In OH you have Mark Valenti in Cleveland area.. Craig Smith football players and a lot of weight lifters. in Dayton OH. Myself in KY and Mark Wrinkle in the western part of KY... Lannie Pullon in IN and Doug Ballard. Q—In recruiting for Highland dance, and music we see constant programs developed for these areas. Is there a way to recruit the Q—What and how do Highland Athletics receive funding and if so younger athletes for Highland Athletics? A—You could have a from who? A—Funding is received from sponsors or state funding. Jr. Division like they do in Canada... but, the sport is so unknown. A younger kid would have to know someone that actually did the Q—What can area Scottish Societies do to help and further this games or you would have to recruit them on your own. part of our culture? A—We need to get our sport out there more, the festivals are family oriented and that’s what we need to sell. Q—What are the constant problems you see that constantly confront Highland Athletics? A—Budget is a big problem, need Q—Is Highland Athletics solely a male competition? A—Female more exposure as an athletic event and not just some “freak show competitors are becoming more and more popular. As it should, that with dudes in dresses”. gets more people involved into the sport. Q—Is there a way to expose area high school/college programs Q—If left up to you how would you approach recruitment of to seminars or displays of Highland Athletics? A—.Clinics can be young athletes to become more interested in not only athletics but used to help promote games at the HS and college level.. It has to be also Scottish culture? A—I’d just mention to people that they something where you were brought in by the school to do a clinic. would like to go to the games or they would try the sport. Q—What is the chief complaint you hear from the athletes Q—What future do you see for Highland Athletics in 20 years? themselves? A—Not a lot of complaints in the pro division... we A—20 years? I have no idea, but I hope the sport grows and gets get paid... lol. Sometimes we go places, and things are ran all out more popular. of sync, you may have a 2 hour lunch break or big breaks between events. And that sucks, because we have to get warmed up each Q—What National/State Organizations would you refer interest time. If we sit very long... the risk of injury is greatly to? A—NASGA has the set of rules that most people refer to, but increased when this happens. there are several organizations SSAAA, and MASA. *For more information on Glasgow Kentucky Highland We see successful programs for recruitment in Q— Games Highland Athletics or how to participate go to www. 14 the dance and music areas should Scottish Societies glasgowhighlandgames.com, email: [email protected]. take a similar approach to younger elementary age

On Highland Athletics with Jen Gempler: Jen’s a Certified SAAA Judge*, SAAA Archivist and Treasure Valley Idaho Highland Games Athletic Director*

Q—How long have you been involved with Highland Athletics? Q—We see sometimes at Highland Competitions wrestling, A—Twelve years and weight lifting; should Highland Athletics embrace the area of Highland Running? A—I’ve only heard interest in this expressed Q—Did you participate in any of the events? If so what? once in the last decade. A—No. Q—Say… we as Scots are introduced to high school/college age Q—How long have you been involved in the management of the individual who is interested in learning/participating in the Highland Games you currently over see? A—Three years Competitions, who do we as Societies refer them to… to further Q—What problems do you see in making the general public their interests and become a Highland athlete? In KY? Are there aware of Highland Athletics? Lack of exposure and typically student Camps for beginners? The athletes in their area who A— A— limited budgets to work with. are holding practices and deeply involved and established with the Games already. Q—What kind of person do you see coming out and learning Highland Athletics? A—Everyone interested in the culture and Q—What and how do Highland Athletics receive funding and if camaraderie. Highland Athletics is the only individual sport where so from who? A—Mainly athletics registrations and, to a lesser I have ever seen each competitor coach, cheer on and help other degree, corporate sponsorships competitors to perform better. Q—What can area Scottish Societies do to help and further this Q—In recruiting for Highland dance, and music we see constant part of our culture? A—Help promote and advertise events programs developed for these areas. Is there a way to recruit the Q—Is Highland Athletics solely a male competition? A— younger athletes for Highland Athletics? A— Partnering with Absolutely not. I have everyone from a 105lb. girl to 300lb. men middle and high schools to hold exhibitions/clinic for their sports competing in my Games. teams and PE classes and after school for anyone else interested. Q—If left up to you how would you approach recruitment of Q—What are the constant problems you see that constantly young athletes to become more interested in not only athletics but confront Highland Athletics? A—The mind-set of the “Societies” also Scottish culture? A—Again, partnering with middle/high is that the Games are a less important event than the clans/dancing/ schools to hold exhibitions/clinics for their students. Maybe visiting piping etc. Make sure that the athletes are treated equitably. summer camps and holding exhibitions there. Q—Is there a way to expose area high school/college programs Q—What future do you see for Highland Athletics in 20 years? to seminars or displays of Highland Athletics? A—Partnering A—If the Idaho area is any indicator with what we’ve done with their sports teams/PE classes and after school events to hold in the past 3 years since signing with the SAAA... I see world exhibitions/clinics to garner interest. domination!!!! Q—What is the chief complaint you hear from the athletes Q—What National/State Organizations would you refer interest themselves? A—Can’t really pinpoint one. to? A—SAAA National and/or SAAA Idaho Chapter. n Q—We see successful programs for recruitment in the dance and *For more information on SAAAIdaho Scottish American Athletic music areas should Scottish Societies take a similar approach to Association Idaho and how to participate go to www.saaaidaho younger elementary age athletes? A— I don’t believe elementary .org, for more about the Treasure Valley Idaho Highland Games go age is where we need to focus. The implements we use and the to www.idahoscots.org/festival.htm, email: moduinnebruce@ physical skill it takes to wield them safely requires a bit older hotmail.com participant. I would suggest starting with middle school/Jr. high age kids.

The mind-set of the “Societies” is that the Games are a less important 15 event than the clans/dancing/piping etc. Make sure that the athletes are treated equitably...

On Highland Athletics with Kevin Anderson: Is the Ohio Scottish Games Athletic Director. and President of Association of Scottish Games and Festivals

Q—How long have you been involved with Highland Athletics? Q—Say… we as Scots are introduced to high school/college age A—Ten years individual who is interested in learning/participating in the Highland Competitions, who do we as Societies refer them to… to further their Q—Did you participate in any of the events? If so what? interests and become a Highland athlete? In OH? Are there student A—No, I am a judge.. Camps for beginners? A—I know of no camps. In OH and WV, Q—How long have you been involved in the management of the I refer the individual to MASA, Mid Atlantic Scottish Athletes. Our Games you currently over see? A—Ten years with the Scottish organization has athletes who help train a new athlete if they are Festival & Celtic Gathering in Bridgeport, WV, I am now the current interested in competing. Learning the correct way to handle an chairman. Three years with the Ohio Scottish Games as athletic implement, provides safety to the athlete and the public. director. President of Association of Scottish Games and Festivals for Q—What and how do Highland Athletics receive funding and if past 3yrs. Current president of Clan Anderson Society so from who? A—Mostly from individuals and corporations who Q—What problems do you see in making the general public want to sponsor the event. aware of Highland Athletics? A—1. State and local advertising 2. Q—What can area Scottish Societies do to help and further this Educating the public on what they see advertised and what they will part of our culture? A—Get with as many festivals and games experience if they come out to the festival. as you can and offer your time and resources. Make sure there are Q—What kind of person do you see coming out and learning children’s games at the festival so the children are competing and Highland Athletics? A—Anyone who is fairly in shape. There are receiving recognition. organizations that help train new people. MASA is one of them. Q—Is Highland Athletics solely a male competition? A—NO Q—In recruiting for Highland dance, and music we see constant Q—If left up to you how would you approach recruitment of programs developed for these areas. Is there a way to recruit the young athletes to become more interested in not only athletics younger athletes for Highland Athletics? A— Yes, but secondary but also Scottish culture? A—You have to start with the parents athletics in schools sometimes prohibit this type of extra curricular and guardians. You have to get them interested to come out to activities, same goes for college athletes. the festival. Our games in WV, we usually have a group go to the Q—What are the constant problems you see that constantly elementary schools and perform on the Friday before the games. confront Highland Athletics? A—None, if the festival has enough This sparks interest in the children to get their parents to the festival. money and space and insurance When we held the World Highland Heavy Athletic Competition in ‘08, we held a program with the athletes who were competing. Q—Is there a way to expose area high school/college programs to seminars or displays of Highland Athletics? A—Yes, if someone Q—What future do you see for Highland Athletics in 20 years? has the time and money. A—This all depends on money. You have to have equipment and judges. There will always be people who get the bug for Highland Q—What is the chief complaint you hear from the athletes Athletics. themselves? A— Recognition. Some festivals place their athletics away from all other venues. Q—What National/State Organizations would you refer interest to? A—There is no governing National or State organization for Q—We see successful programs for recruitment in the dance and amateur athletics. Mostly regional and solely maintained by athletes music areas should Scottish Societies take a similar approach to themselves. I am involved with MASA and ASGF. I am not really younger elementary age athletes? A— You have to be very careful familiar with Pro athletics. Most Scottish organizations deal with in this area. Elementary age athletes are too young to be training history and culture. and lifting heavy objects involved in Highland athletics. *For more information on The Ohio Highland Games how to Q—We see sometimes at Highland Competitions wrestling, and participate go to www.ohioscottishgames.com , email: daa223@ weight lifting; should Highland Athletics embrace juno.com the area of Highland Running? A—No, Highland Athletics should not involve running. Most festivals 16 has other events which involve a kilted mile.

On Highland Athletics with Eric Ettesvold: Is the Southern Idaho Scottish American Athletic Association Representative and Competes as well

Q—How long have you been involved with Highland Athletics? Q—Say… we as Scots are introduced to high school/college age A—Two and a half years individual who is interested in learning/participating in the Highland Competitions, who do we as Societies refer them to… to further their Q—Did you participate in any of the events? If so what? interests and become a Highland athlete? In OH? Are there student A—All of the events. Camps for beginners? A—Whoever is holding practices in their Q—How long have you been involved in the management of area. Put the location and/or contact info on the state website.. the Games you currently over see? A—I have been involved in Q—What and how do Highland Athletics receive funding and if management for a little over a year so from who? A—Game by Game basis from local sponsors and Q—What problems do you see in making the general public chambers of commerce. aware of Highland Athletics? A—Getting them to understand that Q—What can area Scottish Societies do to help and further these are Athletes on the field, that train and are dedicated to the this part of our culture? A—Embrace the Games. Realize the sport. importance of the Games at Festivals. Q—What kind of person do you see coming out and learning Q—Is Highland Athletics solely a male competition? A—While Highland Athletics? A—Athletes who are no longer able to there is a male majority at the moment, there is certainly room for compete in their sport of choice, but still have the desire to compete growth in the female dept. and have a reason to continue training and conditioning programs. Q—If left up to you how would you approach recruitment of Q—In recruiting for Highland dance, and music we see constant young athletes to become more interested in not only athletics but programs developed for these areas. Is there a way to recruit also Scottish culture? A— We have developed business cards the younger athletes for Highland Athletics? A— In Idaho we with contact info. When we see a good candidate we hand them a have adapted a kids day in conjunction with the games and have card. modified gear to show them the events. Q—What future do you see for Highland Athletics in 20 years? Q—What are the constant problems you see that constantly A—More mainstream and standardized. confront Highland Athletics? A—Pissing matches between festival organizers and games organizers Q—What National/State Organizations would you refer interest to? A—SAAA. n Q—Is there a way to expose area high school/college programs to seminars or displays of Highland Athletics? A—Hold clinics in the *For more information on SAAAIdaho Scottish American Athletic off season of football and track programs. Association Idaho and how to participate go to www.saaaidaho .org, or to contact Eric email: [email protected] Q—What is the chief complaint you hear from the athletes themselves? A— Not enough local events. We are working very Editor’s Note: I would personally thank each participant in this Q&A hard on changing this. again, for taking the time to help our Society understand their views on Highland Athletics. Also, the Caledonian Society of Cincinnati Q—We see successful programs for recruitment in the dance and owes great thanks to David Garman of the Scottish American music areas should Scottish Societies take a similar approach to Athletic Association, for his great behind the scenes help and getting younger elementary age athletes? A— I feel junior high and above his contacts to complete this questionnaire. Also to Charles Black for his very detailed features and knowledge about Highland Athletics. would be a better pick solely for the safety factor Lastly, this feature section is in honor of Will Moore from my church. Q—We see sometimes at Highland Competitions wrestling, Will questioned me on how to learn/compete in Highland Athletics. and weight lifting; should Highland Athletics embrace the area of I found that I, and others in my Society, had nobody to send this Scottish highschool senior athlete to for help and training. Will Highland Running? A—No opinion. buddy, this one’s for you, and your passion about all things Scottish. Your zeal and fire is what makes us Scots great! 17 Embrace the Games. Realize the importance of the Games at Festivals. Tell Me Where To Go For Highland Athletic Resources....

The Great Lakes Scottish Athletes M.A.S.A. sanctioned Heavy Athletics Athletics to facilitate and promote the Here is Association (GLSAA) was founded competition please use the contact Heavy Events that are a traditional Several in 2007. The organization formed information on this page. part of Scottish Highland Games when the United States Strongman www.heavyevents.com and Gatherings. We offer Hosting Associations Federation disbanded. GLSAA was Organizations a variety of choices that can created to allow Scottish Heavy North American Scottish Games that may include A.D. Support, Athletics competitors in Ohio, Athletics (NASGA) has a website that Setup Advice, Use of Equipment, help with Pennsylvania, and Michigan to stay stores all scores for all events in North Certified Judges, Competition Rules, questions or in contact, discuss upcoming games, America, amateur and pro. Click on Scorekeepers, Announcers and organize training sessions, and to stay the Database link. There are several Sanctioning. It is our goal to create participation. informed about Highland Games in ways to search the database. You an atmosphere of cooperation and the region. Since its formation, the can access individual game scores, mutual satisfaction between the organization has adapted to support individual athlete scores, athlete various Hosting Organizations and the needs of a growing number of rankings and more. the Athletic Community. We support athletes and games, particularly in www.nasgaweb.com/dbase/main.asp all Games regardless of organization Ohio. The GLSAA conducts games or sanctioning. We are experienced under the rules and regulations The Scottish American Athletic athletes, judges, athletic directors and outlined by NASGA. GLSAA has Association (SAAA) Our mission business owners. We all have over organized training seminars with is to educate the general public of 20 years experience in the planning Pro athletes, charity benefits, and a his or her own history and culture. and presentation of Highland Games growing number of games at festivals We are hired by Celtic festivals Athletics. and in back yards to run, sanction, and promote www.ramwriteconsulting.com/sha/ glsaa.com Scottish Highland Games. We are index.cfm currently expanding out of California Mid-Atlantic Scottish Athletics north to Portland Oregon and into Southeastern Scottish Amateur (MASA) was founded in 1999 by Washington State and now as far east Athletic Association (SSAAA) Heavy Events Athletes and Judges as Texas where we have a satellite This site will give you access to in the Mid-Atlantic region of the organization set up. We are the bench the schedule of games for the eastern United States to organize and mark for all others to follow. We are southeastern United States. Most promote the Heavy Events. M.A.S.A. not trying to overtake any existing events have a web page you can is now the official sanctioning organization, but to standardize access through the schedule page. organization of the majority of the the games for all. Scottish Heavy To get involved in an event, contact Heavy Events competitions held in Athletics. the athletic director for that event. Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, www.saaa-net.org Contact information available on the West Virginia and Kentucky. If schedule page. you or your organization would Scottish Heavy Athletics www.thessaaa.org n like to find out about having a It is the intent of Scottish Heavy

Caledonian Pipe & Drums presents AnnualTartan Day

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19 Out of the Sporran: A collection of happenings... in the current Scottish World At Scottish Christmas Walk in Alexandria, Mixed Reviews on Underwear Under Kilts

By Annie Gowen such parades on the East Coast. Center, an Alexandria nonprofit Washington Post Staff Writer The tougher Scots in evidence that provides Head Start and other Saturday, December 4, 2010 vowed defiance. assistance for low-income families. or the kilt-wearing hordes who “A man’s a man,” said William Robin Naysmith, head of the descend each year on Old Town Oscar Fleming, 39, a District resident Scottish Affairs Office at the British Ffor its Scottish Christmas Walk who works for a local nonprofit. “A Embassy, colored slightly when and Parade, the bawdy joke has always Highlander doesn’t need underwear.” asked about the game-changing been: boxers, briefs . . . or nothing at He reached for his silver flask and undergarment news coming out of his all? A true Scot never wears anything took a stiff shot of single-malt whiskey. home country in the past two weeks. under his kilt, the saying goes. “If we did wear underwear, it “Achhhhhhh,” he said slowly. “I Last month (November 2010), would be made of, like, twigs,” he said. wouldn’t take that too seriously. Each the Scottish Tartans Authority, the Others expressed relief that they to his own, we say.” governing body that sets the world could now wimp out with impunity. So, on that note, the parade standard for Highland dress, called The practice is called “going began. Bagpipes wailed. A crowd of for an end to the age-old custom, regimental” - a nod to the Scottish more than 20,000 lined the streets. saying the practice is “unhygienic” and military regiments that have have long Representatives from more than 100 “offensive.” embraced it. Scottish clans threw candy through air. “If you are out and about in a “Our biggest challenge is always Costumed terriers - who had obviously kilt, then remember to show some the cold, 10-mile-an-hour wind that not gotten the underwear memo A drafty Hamilton County decorum,” said Brian Wilton, director always blows off the Potomac in - trotted along au natural under their Sheriff’s Band going of the Tartans Authority. December,” said Doug McClelland, 63, tiny kilts. over a grate in front of News of the stunning reversal an engineer from Crownsville. It was chilly at first, but the sun was the Westin... It definitely warm. Nice day for a parade - looked better when got mixed reviews by many revelers The Scottish government was a co- no matter what you are wearing. n Marilyn did it. at Saturday’s parade in Alexandria, sponsor of the weekend’s events, which a holiday tradition that has grown in included a Scotch tasting and greens 40 years to become one of the largest sale and benefited the Campagna Sent by Gary & Peggy Moore

Highland Homecoming for Drum Hidden During Dunkirk Retreat By Frank Urquhart November 2, 2010 A military drum belonging to one of Scotland’s most famous regiments, hidden in the heat of battle during the retreat to Dunkirk in the Second World War, is to be returned to Scotland 70 years after being abandoned. The story began when the regimental side drum, emblazoned with the battle honours of the Gordon Highlanders, was buried in a farmer’s field by a soldier serving in the regiment’s 4th Battalion as the Gordons were being forced to retreat to the Dunkirk beachhead along with the rest of the British Expeditionary Force. But it has only now been revealed that, within hours of the Gordons leaving the village of Hem in northern France, the drum was found by a policeman who stumbled across its hiding place in the dark while taking a shortcut home. On 12 November, at a ceremony in Hem, descendents of the policeman will hand over the drum to representatives of the Gordon Highlanders Museum in Aberdeen, who plan to make it a star item at an exhibition on the musical history of the regiment. Museum curator Jesper Ericsson said: “This is an extraordinary story and the donation ceremony in France will be all the more poignant as armistice commemorations take place around the world. “We were absolutely staggered when we heard that someone in Hem had the drum and wanted to donate it to the museum.” He explained that the drum had belonged to a soldier serving with the 4th (City of Aberdeen) Battalion of the Gordon Highlanders, a territorial unit which had been to ordered to cover the general retreat to Dunkirk following the Nazi invasion of France. Mr Ericsson said: “The drum was buried in farmer’s field in May, 1940. But shortly after it was concealed a French police- man, Seraphin Boulet, stumbled over the spot. “He scraped away some of the earth and found a tarpaulin covering this beautifully- decorated drum. The story goes that with his grandson’s birthday coming up he thought it would make a fabulous present.” 20 Mr Boulet took it to the nearby home of his daughter, Raymonde Detrain Boulet. n BURGOO? A Thick Kentucky Stew (Most Have Never Heard Of) With Scottish Roots! Cook It... It’ll Be Bur-gone! In Honor of the Last Kentucky Scottish Weekend! and Kentucky!!, Cook a KETTLE of BURGOO! If You Have Lots Of Time! By Bill Parsons urgoo making is a way of life for were added always varied by season, 200 lbs hens (boiled use the native Kentuckians. Considered as the stew was made from what stock as your base as needed) Bas one of the few Kentucky- was available or dried. Burgoo’s held 2000 lbs potatoes, born foods, Burgoo is a peppery stew up as a way to feed large groups of peeled and diced (NOT SOUP) with a rich history. And, people with what was on-hand. This 200 lbs onions discussing your recipe or Burgoo’s dish became most popular around the 5 bushels of cabbage, chopped origins, has started a fight or two. And, horse farms and distilleries. At Buffalo 60 ten-pound cans tomatoes after that “Pass the damn cornbread...” Trace Distillery in Frankfort, there are 24 ten-pound cans puree of Burgoo originated in the late two giant iron kettles that were used to tomatoes 1600’s and refers to a porridge English make food for the distillery and events. 24 ten-pound cans of carrots Burgoo has it origins from early Irish and sailors ate made from bulghur wheat. The original “Burgoo King” of 18 ten-pound cans of corn Scottish settlers in Kentucky. Kentucky’s burgoo contains no wheat, Kentucky, is Gus Jaubert. Gus, was a 18 ten-pound cans of lima & peas Any recipe IS different but the thick stew (NOT SOUP) is judged French trained chef. He was an aide to 18 ten-pound cans of okra similar. Add or subtract what done when a wooden spoon stands-up General John Hunt Morgan (CSA) and Worchestershire bottles, red pepper you wish to use. Mine’s more in it. Originators of Burgoo may also created it for the General. Mr. Jaubert flakes or Tabasco, and salt to taste. “Worchestershirey” and less be the Mulligan stew, a traditional dish is the father of Burgoo in Kentucky He Mix the ingredients, a little at a time, tomato based than above. of the Irish and Scotch settlers in the is once known for cooking 6000 gal. of and cook outdoors in huge iron kettles This is too “liquidy” for me. Kentucky region. Burgoo for 10000 at a reunion for The over wood fires from 15 to 20 hours. Burgoo started in the late 1700’s Grand Army of the Republic. His recipe Use squirrels/rabbit if in season... one to early 1800’s in when Kentucky was bequested to Jim T. Looney and dozen to each 100 gallons. was young. The cooking of Burgoo Tandy Ellis, who developed Modern Excellent idea for the Society at historically, is in large steel or iron Kentucky Burgoo. I can remember fund KSW or Glasgow? Anyone got some kettles that started during this time as raisers at Florence KY Christian Church, time? Or Canoe Paddle to stir with? a way of feeding the masses with little where the huge kettles were cooked on My recipe??? No way... it's a secret food. Mostly at revivals, church fund- a fire for hours, for church fund raisers. for the Derby Day Party with Kentucky raisers, and rural events. Early Burgoos Here's a recipe for the masses: fare. But, here's one that's close, go use game meat such as squirrel, lamb, 600 lbs lean shredded meat to: www.slashfood.com/2008/06/07/ rabbit, possum, and deer, along with (200beef, 200pork, 200other) kentucky-burgoo. Cut it up or down, beef, chicken or pork. Vegetables that Make it THICK, and adapt it. n

RABBIE! The Yanks Are Comin!!!! Kicking off hope all the Burns Night festivities went well. I am looking for as many fans of the Bard and Scot in Spring Iland to support our case for the 2011 Art Fund Prize – you can vote for us at: http://www.artfundprize.org.uk/2011/vote/index.php We are the only Scottish museum in the running – and we need to be able to demonstrate our public appeal against some very long established and large institutions such as the British Museum. What better way to do this that to mobilize our international 2011 friends? Please vote for us – and pass it on! Cast your vote for Come’on out May14th the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in the Art Fund Prize for Museums 2011 to the Final One Thanks, Nat

Nat Edwards Come to 2011’s Kentucky Scottish Weekend (KSW)! Director Come to Gen. Butler State Park in Carrollton, KY Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and you’ll find a wee bit of Scotland. Murdoch’s Lone For directions go to: http://mapq.st/fJvfxR Alloway Ayr, Advance Weekend Tickets* General Admission* Adult tickets: $13.00 each (at the gate) KA7 4PQ Senior tickets: $12.00 each Adults: $15.00 Children (6-12) tickets: $3.00 Seniors: $14.00 tel 0844 4932601 (ext 33) **SPECIAL** Family Pack Children 6-12: $3.00 21 (2 adults/3 children): $25.00 email [email protected] n *Download coupons at: (Add’l children $3.00 each) www.kyscottishweekend.org/ downloads/coupon.pdf Caledonian Society Of Cincinnati

Spring Meeting Dinner & Entertainment

In Memory of Nora Kindness and in honor of her bequest, our entertainment is Country Dance by The Royal Scottish Country Dancers

Friday, April 15, 2011 Highland Country Club From 471, Off South US 27 in Fort Thomas, KY Cocktails: 5:30 Dinner: 6:30 Meeting: 7:30 $33 per person for either Herbed Roast Pork Tenderloin or Chicken Marsala, rolls, salad, veggies and Cobbler.

This dinner/meeting will be open to everyone to attend.

RESERVATION DEADLINE: April 7, 2011

Send reservations to: Number of Pork or Chicken Recording Secretary, James Reilly 9510 Ambleside Dr. Members attending Cincinnati, Ohio 45241 Make checks payable to: Caledonian Society of Cincinnati Total enclosed

Remember to make sure your dues are current so please review the other flyer attached to this issue. We encourage you send in your dues or pay them at the meeting. If your dues are not current, your vote cannot be counted.