Highland Games celebrate Celtic heritage

  • A clear frontrunner in the bonniest knees contest, 8-month-old Declan Summers has a bit of help in displaying his wee hinges from dad, Ben Summers.
  • Flags lined the row of heritage clans and vendors available at the event.
  • A lot of dancing was happening as people enjoyed the live Celtic bands.
  • A competitor nears his ready to release in the heavy weight for distance event.
  • Capitol Commercial Services was a sponsor for the games; the twin brothers also came out and supported at the event.
  • Merl Lawless, center, has been an essential part of the athletics, having roped his one-time neighbors, on the left, Allen Boesdorfer and Dave MacDonna on the right, into helping over the years.
  • Guido Strotheide and Julie Slater, of Jacksonville, have attended the games for many years.
  • A contestant in the athletics portion gives her best attempt.
  • Father and son walk together in matching Scottish dress.
  • A member of the Saint Andrew’s Society of Central Illinois Pipes and Drums plays the bagpipes.

By Kyla Hurt
Photos by Kyla Hurt

The Springfield Area Highland Games, hosted by The St. Andrew’s Society of Central Illinois, were held on Saturday, May 15, at the Sangamon County Fairgrounds in New Berlin.

This is the new home for the event, allowing the Celtic festival to run – rain or shine. Although intermittent sprinkles did make an appearance, vehicles were coming through the gate and it cleared up as the day continued. The day features an athletic competition hosted by Ancient Athletics, bagpipers, Celtic dancers and more.

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