World History of Highland Games

by Webster, David P.; Richardson, Lynn Boland

• ISBN13: 9781906307486
• ISBN10: 1906307482
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2011-12-10
• Publisher: Luath Press Ltd

Summary

Highland Games expert Webster charts a history of the events at the heart of Scotland's sporting and cultural life. Uncovering the true origins behind today¿s traditions, Webster details the development of the gatherings from ancient Celtic roots to current international status. He examines the tradition's influence in the global sporting arena, and how Highland Games attracted mass appeal and participation long before the advent of the modern Olympics. Complemented by archival prints, lavish illustrations and beautiful photographs, the book will delight anyone interested in the history and development of Highland Games around the world.

Author Biography

David P Webster has been described as the leading authority on Highland Games after being involved in the sport for over fifty years. A champion in his own right and an authority at the highest level in Scottish leisure and recreational authorities, he organises and commentates at Highland gatherings in every continent. Webster officiated at Olympic Games in Rome, Mexico City and Munich and has served in numerous positions on the Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland since 1957; he is now the Council's Life Vice President. He has received many national and international honours including an OBE at Buckingham Palace in 1995. A prolific writer, his books on Highland Games prove very popular.Lynn Boland Richardson is a Canadian author, historian and photographer of Scottish descent. She gained a Masters degree in History from the University of Waterloo and since 1986 has served as professional Historian for The Record newspaper in Canada. She expresses her passion for the promotion and preservation of Scottish culture within Canada through her roles as a Director for the Canadian Scottish Athletic Federation and the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games. Lynn is a regular lecturer on Scottish related topics, including the culture of Scotch Malt Whisky, at many Highland Games throughout Canada and internationally. As a photographer specialising in historic sites and Scottish athletics and Highland Games in general, Lynn's published work can be seen in magazines, postcards, posters and greeting cards.