It was a beautiful, sunny, albeit slightly windy day for the illustrious Kilted Mile at the Scottish Highland Games at Topaz Park. Lads in kilts (some in obviously hand torn plaid garments fashioned on the spot) and lasses similarly attired gathered for the important and convoluted instructions. This year it was decided to stick to the top field to avoid taking out unsuspecting pedestrians as we tore up from the lower field. We were to do eight laps and to help us 'count' we each had eight popsicle sticks to discard into a bucket every time we finished a lap. As the race progressed there were sticks all over the ground in a three metre area as the fastees threw them wildly as they blasted by. Unfortunately Chris Callendar dropped a stick en route and finished early. By the time he had discovered his error he had lost a few places in the field.
We had enormous fun tearing around the field cheered on by the enthusiastic crowds and the obligatory bagpipes. There were about twenty of us this year, up a few from last year. Considering the prize money, it is the best kept secret in Victoria. $100 for first, $75 for second and $50 for third in both the men and women's categories. There are also medals in several age groups so almost everyone came out with something. The highlight is the vote for best costume, always a hotly contested event with lots of cheering and some sexy showing of legs to encourage votes (both men and women I might add).
This year a lad with a homemade costume of plaid material ripped and made into a sash hat and skirt took the honours. Claire looked amazing in her skirt, matching socks and hair braids, as well as being extremely fast. The Harrier Clan all won their age categories and Clare took first woman overall. Gary Duncan won gold in his age group, Christine Thate won gold and I won silver in our age group, Martha McNeely won gold in her age group as well.
Afterwards we toured around looking at all the events and listening to the live entertainment. My son was so enamored with the medieval sword fighting he signed up for lessons. There were sheep herding events, caber (read telephone pole) tossing, highland dancing, as well as food and alcoholic libations for those inclined.
Altogether a wonderful day all for the inclusive price of $20. Looking forward to next year, "Aye the Scots".
