More pipes a-playing at Saturday's Highland Games
Daily News Staff Reporter
When bands of pipers take the lawn at Albert McGowan Park on Saturday, July 14, they will, for the first time in the history of the Kamloops Highland Games, be scored based on performance.
And, with its newly granted aggregate status by B.C. Pipers Association, there is the potential for more bands to attend the games in coming years, said Heather Hamilton.
"Bands are huge. There are 20 to 30 people to band," she said, adding there's an economic benefit to this as well. "We'll drawn more attention to Kamloops for pipe band competitions."
Bands that perform in Kamloops can now be awarded points based on performance. This gives the event greater prominence within the tournament field as bands compete for top honours in North America.
Eight or nine teams are expected to play today, including the six-time world championship Simon Fraser University Pipe Band.
Highland dancing, which is always a big part of the event, takes place as well. However, dancing at this year's games will not be competitive as 20 local dancers will be in Edmonton for a competition there.
"There will be demonstrations though," said Hamilton. And novices can take lessons and join in the mass fling at the end of the games.
Robin Wright has organized the heavy games with men, women and children invited to test his or her strength.
The sheath toss, which is a Weight for Height event, and the sword hold, which requires competitors to hold a long Claymore sword with arm extended, are among the heavy events.
The games start at 8 a.m. and go until 5 p.m. A Scottish-themed vendors market and beer garden are included in the festivities.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children and seniors. For more information go online to kamloopshighlandgames.ca.