2015 Whdbey Island/ Bitterroot Celtic Games

**Blupiper** · 18th August 15, 10:03 PM

The last couple of weekends I traveled to the Whidbey Island (WA) Highland Games and the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering in Hamilton, MT. Both are smaller Games with their own charms and competitions. Whidbey was 8/8 and the Bitterroot Games were on 8/15. Whidbey is fun because it starts with a ferry ride. If I had gotten a picture, I could have entered the photo challenge on this Forum. Oh, well. I entered a couple of piping events and got a first in the 2/4 March. Here I am with the hardware:

This is a pic of a very talented family. The daughters danced, played the fiddle and sang (in Gaelic!). Mom provided the harp and Dad on guitar. Never did catch their names:

Heavy athletes too. The men's sheaf:

Women's caber:

The Bitterroot Games had piping. I got a third in the piobaireachd:

This drummer has great enthusiasm, but no stamina in the parades and massed bands. Big future, though:

When all was said and done, I entered the Scottish Biathlon. Montana Amber and and a 14 year old Oban:

Both Whidbey and the Bitterroot Games are smaller Games and while I had to do a bit of traveling to reach them and compete, I feel it's worth it. Games are slowly being squeezed to death by costs, time and apathy, and while I can't stop it all, I can support those events and Games that are worth the effort. Whenever you have the chance, attend and support your local Games and keep the flame alive.

JMB