Yes, this is Scotland or as close to it as we can recreate: Scottish Highland Games, Woodland, California, the games.
Athletes who train, bands that practice, dancers who start at an early age–they were all there and from different countries. I didn’t realize how big time these games are. Children came from Ireland to compete in what I call the “Drum Major” competition. I’ve tried to find the correct name, but was unsuccessful. Who knows, I might be right! But they were there at the Scottish Highland Games.
I was impressed about how precise everything was. Uniforms had to be just so, routines had to be exact and the throw length in the games was measured. It was pure talent. So take a look at these people of all ages who trained and practiced. I hope you will take the time to view more than the normal amount of images.
Young girls compete in the Highland Dance Competition. We missed the younger set competition.
Older girls compete.
On this raised dance floor they are able to get off the floor.
Here, little ones practice.
Here a contestant is working up enough velocity to through the weight.
Here the weight is in the air, ready to land and be measured.
This is the Caber Toss. The tapered pole is 19.5 ft. and weighs 175 lbs.
The contestant runs with the pole and then throws it in the air.
Here you see it coming down. Many of these contestants were seniors!
This is the weight over the bar game. This time the goal is to get this 64 pound weight, with an attached handle, over the bar.
This weight is already over the bar and on it’s way down.
You can see a weight clear the bar in this image. Different contestant.
This contestant is getting ready for the stone put.
It is similar to the shot put in the Olympic Games.
Cal Fire band practices before the competition.
This gentleman stands tall while waiting for his competition.
Slow Shutter Speed 