Scottish Highland Games Association

SCOTLAND'S HIGHLAND GAMES REACH ACROSS TO JAPAN

In a show of solidarity, members of the SHGA have rallied round to help the Japan Highland Games event, after it looked threatened because of all the problems following the natural disasters. During 2011 various games events in Scotland had collections and made donations, which SHGA topped-off to £1,000. This was handed over by judging stalward Alan Sim at the Tokyo event on 2nd October.

Pictured is Alan with organisers and competitors in Tokyo.

After a short flight (twelve hours) land Friday at Narita, off to Hotel in Roppongi with a limousine bus about three hrs due to traffic jams! accidents! normally 1.5 hrs. Time only for forty winks then off to welcome party /ceilidh at a pub called the Hobgoblin (guid fish an chips) .Then up tae Paddy Foley's an Irish pub where the piper goes down a treat.

Sat. train out to games field at Chiba past Tokyo Disney, great rail system athing on time spotlessly clean, the Games at Kanda University playing fields, a bit like St Andrews. Set up safety net and ring, coach a few wanabee heavies etc. go for meal at outback (Ozzie Chain) Return to hotel early night.

Sund. up at 6.30 catch train for Gathering commencing at 10.30. with March around field.

Seven heavies two Americans three Canadians one Australian one Japanese plus John.

All went fine John won all events, but pushed a bit by the Japanese lad. Back to Roppongi A wee celebration or two.

Mon. sailed down one of the many waterways in Tokyo visited a temple went to a Japanese Rest. Where you cook your own selection of food on the table good fun.

Tues. Went to Mnt Fuji saw it clearly for once and you drive half way up, very impressive, to a fish market where so many odd thinks like cakes, purses, ornaments, made out of dried fish.

Wed. went to that famous crossing in Shibuya, used in the film Lost in Translation, but sadly poured the whole day

It was a case of restaurant to bar to rest. For shelter.

Thurs. Up at 6.30 long flight home back to Blighty but great trip lot of fun, they were all delighted with the donation from the SHGA, so on their behalf thanks a million.

Finally John Macleod a first class Ambassador for Jock Land.

Regards,

Alan