judges look for strength, balance and, agility in all the events. Ages of the
competitors generally range from 20 years to 40 years old. They come from
Michigan, Kentucky, Ohio, Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York and many
other states. Kurt Pauli of South Lyon chairs this event. The St. Andrew’s
Society of Detroit’s Games rank in the top five of all the Games held in the
quality of the competitors.
Saturday August 7
th
there will be Highland Dancing Demonstrations
Because of Covid restrictions this year, Highland Dance Chair Jennifer
Miller Combs of Highland has had to change some of the routine for the
completive dancing. Competitive dancing will be held on Friday, but
admission is limited to families of the dancers. On Saturday, there will be
Highland Dance demonstrations throughout the day. The demonstrations
will be open to the public to see and learn about the intricacies of Highland
Dance. Each of the dances performed have a great story behind it. The
Seann Truibhas dance originated when after the Highland uprising in 1745,
English rule forbid the wearing of the kilt. Scots now had to wear the
“truibhas -trews – trousers”. The dance shows how the trews were happily
kicked off when the law was repealed. The Sword Dance shows the dancers
dancing around the swords that are strategically placed on the floor or shield
without touching them. To be successful in this feat meant good luck in
battle. The dance was done before and after the battle to celebrate victory.
Saturday August 7
th
there will be Living History Presentations
The St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit can boast that it hosts two of the
greatest reenactment units around at its Highland Games. Grant’s Company
of the 142
nd
Highlanders and the MacFarlane’s Living History Company
help give color to the games showing visitors how life used to be.
The MacFarlane’s Company is a volunteer organization that sets out to
educate the public about the rich history and culture of Scotland. This group
raises money to support stewardship and preservation work by the National
Trust for Scotland. Historical demonstrations let people get involved and
have a wonderful educational experience. Society Bard, Elliot MacFarlane
of Bowling Green, Ohio, chairs this part of the Highland Games.