Preparing for 1st Competition

[jgorley]

Keep in mind that there are tons of people who try Highland games for the first time at the games. Most Novices have never even seen most of the implements. I wish you would have posted this before making the other plans. I would have told you to still try. When you see how most of the people look you will relax. Remember, it is the overall score you want. For me my hammer is my achilles heel. I rock the rest of the board, but have not really improved my hammer since novices. My first game was in June, and I threw the light hammer 75 feet, as an A I have only thrown it 83 feet or so. Train hard and hopefully you will find a caber to try before Phoenix. I am still trying to get to Tucson this year. We will see. It is a financial issue. Plane tickets and entry fee makes for an expensive weekend.

James

[Yaish]

Absolutely you should compete, even if you've never done the event before. There always has to be a first time right? It's not like most of us have cabers in their backyards to practice with. (Ok, several of us DO have cabers in our backyards, but that's not the point)

Too bad you won't be competing in Tucson. The judges will definitely show you the basics and especially safety tips on all the events if you're not sure what to do. Also, other throwers will show you what to do, and give you tips along the way.

Don't worry about doing well, just go out and DO! Highland Games are fun, so enjoy yourself and never worry about who might be throwing further.

[Ayin McFye]

I truly wish I hadn't made other arrangements before posting this to the group. I regret now that I won't be competing in November. I wasn't afraid really of not doing a good throw, I was just really nervous about looking like an idiot. I'm comfortable enough with all the other events that I don't feel that I'd look silly. I was just concerned with the Caber since it looks the most difficult and would have liked to throw one a few times in a park before attempting to throw in front of everyone. Regardless if i was successful wasn't the point. You've all brought up good points though.

Thank you everyone for the great responses. If you're at the Tucson games I'll still come by and say hi and cheer you on. I'll be there on Saturday.