PICTURES: ‘Caman’ get a slice of the Big Apple
New York is nearly within reach for a group of Kingussie High School shinty girls after a series of fundraising efforts.
The Kingussie High School pupils are now just needing a little extra help in raising the remaining sums to pay for the once-in-lifetime sports trip to the United States.
The USA Girls Performance Camp is being held at Lawrenceville School near the Big Apple in July and will span seven days, providing high-quality shinty coaching.
Aviemore’s Zoe Russell, who has been helping the girls in their endeavour along with other parents, explained: “In less than a month, some of the strath’s young people will be heading to New York for a shinty camp.
“For the first time ever, 13 of our high school girls will be attending the shinty exchange in the USA at the end of June.
“They hope to improve their shinty skills while also being ambassadors of the sport and Scotland.
“While there, they’ll attend daily training, learn about new cultures and see the world famous sights of the Big Apple.
“It’s taken a lot of hard work to get to this point though.
“At the start of the year, the girls were tasked with raising £11,000 and they’ve really thrown themselves into fundraising.
“They’ve organised a ceilidh, a car wash, quiz nights and a raffle, all whilst studying for their exams and attending training.”
“Some of our local businesses have been very generous sponsors including Glenmore Lodge, BEAR Scotland, Highland Wind Farm, Russwood, CR Construction Newtonmore, Dulnain Bridge Garage, Spey Valley Rotary Club and Aviemore Ice Rink.
“They’ve now raised the majority of the money but still have a little way to go.”
Also taking part in the exchange are Ardnamurchan High School, Kilchuimen Academy, Inverness Royal Academy and Portree High School.
The Camanachd Association brought together 43 girls aged 13-17 at Braeview Park last Wednesday afternoon for a pre-camp meeting ahead of the USA Girls Performance Camp.
A spokesperson for the sporting body said: “Participants will enhance their understanding of fitness, technique development, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and emotional development.
“In addition to the athletic focus, the camp will offer a rich cultural experience for all attendees.”
Anyone who would like to sponsor or donate to the Kingussie cause can email caroline.logan@kingussiehigh.org.uk or visit https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/girls-shinty-badenoch