Clan chiefs had to be ever alert to the threat from others and the need to keep their men sharp and battle practised. Competitions or ‘Games’ were organised to practice skills and allow warriors to test their strength and fitness against each other.
Highland Games, as we know them today, were largely a Victorian invention, designed to celebrate the great traditions of Highland culture in Scotland. Today’s Highland Games are much more civilised, of course, although the echoes of history remain, particularly in the heavyweight events. Other aspects of Highland tradition, including the Celtic version of a war dance, are recalled through the spectacle of Highland Dancing competitions.
Highland Games, as we know them today, were largely a Victorian invention, designed to celebrate the great traditions of Highland culture in Scotland. Today’s Highland Games are much more civilised, of course, although the echoes of history remain, particularly in the heavyweight events. Other aspects of Highland tradition, including the Celtic version of a war dance, are recalled through the spectacle of Highland Dancing competitions.
