Monday, February 11, 2013

Scottish Highland Games - The Stone Throw

By Dawn Marie Hamilton

This is my last installment for the Scottish Highland Games series. Sorry, I don't have a picture for the stone throw.

Many believe the stone throw originated with the ancient stone of strength or clachneart often found at the gate of a Highland chief's home. Visitors were encouraged to test their strength by throwing the stone.

The stone throw at Scottish Highland Games is like the modern shot put, but uses a round stone—river stones work well—weighing between 16 and 28 pounds. The stone is put from the front of the shoulder, using only one hand. The competitors are allowed a 7' 6" approach to the toeboard or trig. Most athletes glide, twirl, and then throw the stone. If an athlete touches the top of the trig or the ground in front of it, the throw doesn't count. The farthest throw wins.


Other events:
The Caber Toss
The 28-lb. Weight Throw
The 56-lb Weight Throw
The Sheaf Toss

The Hammer Throw

~Dawn Marie

3 comments:

Paisley Kirkpatrick said...

I wonder how thise stone throw would work in modern times. I'd like to see if our male friends would toss the stone before they could enter the house. It might be an encouragement to visit or maybe a turn off.

Thanks for you posts, Dawn. They are very interesting.

Paisley Kirkpatrick said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Dawn Marie Hamilron said...

I'm not sure, Paisley. Some guys like to strut their stuff. :)