Are you looking for more information about the Highland Games? Learn more about this Scottish heritage today!
The Highland Games, when and how did they get their start and how did they develop into the modern day Games? How many events are there? How can I find a Scottish clan that is associated with the various tartans? Gareth Ainsworth answers these questions and many more in The Highland Games, a beginner’s guide to history, kilts & throwing. Gareth is a multi-faceted man that loves to share his experiences in the Highland Games, the history, kilts and more, on his podcast The Kilted Patriot and now this book.
Inside, you’ll discover:
The history of the Highland Games.
An overview of the games, the basics, governing bodies for the Games, and the different classes.
How to get started.
Where should you buy a kilt, how you should buy one, and what you wear under a kilt.
And more…
This book will also include a 12-month game planning calendar as well as a 12-week training log to practice and prepare for the big day.
Get your copy of The Highland Games, a beginner’s guide to history, kilts & throwing now to learn more about this part of Scottish history.
Targeted Age Group:: 21+
What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I was inspired to write this book for a number of reasons. For one, I really wanted a book that would help me keep track of my training, to maximize my fitness regime when it comes to training for the highland games. Also, I wanted to share my love of the history, the kilts, the Games and everything in between with the world so they can really see just how great it is. From those who have watched the latest season of The Crown to those interested in the Scottish culture and those looking to get started in becoming an athlete, I hope this book inspires and educates others.
Book Sample
For Centuries, the Scottish Highland Games have been considered to be one of Scotland's greatest cultural exports. Through a display of culture, heritage, strength and freedom, the Games offer activities that every family member can enjoy. Over a thousand years ago warriors would gather and test themselves in feats of strength. Through sheer defiance and determination through oppression, this time honored traditions and the ancient values would be upheld. The Highland Games continue throughout the world to this day. The events include activities from heavy athletics, dancing, drumming, and piping that pay homage to Celtic and Scottish culture and as always, delicious food and whiskey.
However, where the Games began is often a point of contention. The Tailteann Games ran from 1820 BC to 1180 AD in Ireland. However, Scotland gives credit to King Malcolm III. In 1040 AD Malcolm, in need of a courier, summoned men from different backgrounds to a hill race. The goal of this activity was simple: the fastest man would be his messenger. As well as the honor of the newly bestowed position, the prize also included a purse of gold and a sword. Legend has it that three brothers joined the race and were favored to win. At the start of the race, the two elder brothers took the lead with the youngest lagging behind, begging the king to allow him to race. The king told him that he may, but was too far behind to have a chance at winning. However, the youngest brother was quick to catch up and most impressive at running the hill. As he closed the gap between himself and his brothers, it is said he called out, “halves brothers, and I will yield.” The brothers responded with a hard no. So, as they became exhausted at the crest of the hill the younger brother darted past. At the same time one of the older brothers fell and grabbed his brother's kilt as he passed, not knowing whether this was to stall his adversary or to save himself from the fall. The youngest brother ripped off his kilt and continued taking the win au naturel. Since then, hill racing continues to play a major role in many Highland Games events. However, people tend to keep their kilts on these days.
According to several experts, the Ceres Games are one of the oldest testaments of Highland Games. The relentless drive of the Scottish people to keep their ceremonious tradition has stood against the test of times, which saw the Games get increasingly popular. The Ceres Games are said to have begun in 1314 – the reason? A Scottish tribute to the people of Fife who had the heart to fight at Bannockburn.
Links to Purchase Print Books
Buy The Highland Games: A Beginner’s Guide to History, Kilts & Throwing Print Edition at Amazon
Links to Purchase eBooks – Click links for book samples and reviews
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