Words by: Scottish Leader
Who says Women’s Day is only for the ladies? The Highland Games, sponsored by Scotch whisky brand, Scottish Leader, is taking advantage of the holiday to stage a family event at Michaelhouse in Balgowan in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, on Saturday, August 9, 2014.
Photo credit: Courtesy for Scottish Leader
Organiser, Brendan Gealy says the Highland Games have become an annual Midlands highlight. "They are emblematic of Scotland, along with the kilt, whisky, haggis, bagpipes and Scottish dancing. We've taken some of the traditional activities and incorporated them into our more contemporary version. For sure, we'll be tossing-the-caber (75kg), carrying-the-weight (74kg) and running a shot put (26kgs) contest. There will also be a tug o’ war and a kilted mile race through the veld.
“We will have six military teams competing, and six civilian teams. A number of local pipe bands will perform throughout the day with a massed pipes and drums display reserved for the official opening at 12:00. We'll be having traditional dancing, music and an exhibition featuring local artists. A large selection of delicious food options will also be on offer, as will a full bar stocked with Scottish Leader and wines from the Distell portfolio.
“Children will be well catered for with a jungle gym, jumping castle, a Slush Puppy stand and an ice cream stall,” Grealy adds.
Taygan Govinden, Scottish Leader's SA marketing manager, says: “Scottish Leader, a masterful blend of up to 30 of the finest Scotch whiskies – 25 single malt and five grain whiskies – is honoured to be the headline sponsor for the Highland Games. They amplify the long-standing traditions that the brand stands for, and gives us the opportunity to showcase our award-winning, lightly peated whisky with its sweetish, honey-rich taste on the palate.
“Our own "Mr Whisky", Pierre Meintjes, will be presenting two VIP tastings of Scottish Leader at the event. He has been involved with Scotch whiskies for more than 40 years and is one of just 159 Masters of the Quaich (pronounced Quake) in the world. This title is conferred by the Keepers of the Quaich and is given only to those recognised for their contribution to the Scotch whisky industry. He is one of only two South Africans to have been honoured in this way.”
Tickets to attend the Highland Games at Michaelhouse cost R60 for adults, and R25 for scholars and pensioners. These can be purchased at the gates that open at 08:30. Secure parking will be available.
More information
Go to www.highlandgamessouthafrica.co.za for more information, or contact the organiser on 083 227 2376.
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