MacDonald of Sleat Poetry Competition 2019

The fifth Gaelic poetry competition for ‘The Macdonald of Sleat’ Poetry Prize will be held this year.  The annual competition was inaugurated by Sir Ian Macdonald in memory of his daughter, Deborah, who passed away at an early age.  The competition is run by Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, the National Centre for Gaelic Language and Culture, on the Isle of Skye and is organised in collaboration with Armadale Castle, Gardens & Museum and supported by Clan Donald Lands Trust.

The theme of the competition each year relates to trees and this year an invitation is extended to anyone who writes poetry or has an interest in doing so to compose a poem on the subject, Craobh nan Ubhal (Apple Tree).  The poems submitted will be considered by a literary panel and a prize of £500 will be awarded for the poem chosen by the panel.  Poems should be submitted to Christine Mackenzie, PA to the Principal, at the following e-mail address by 31 July 2019: runaire@smo.uhi.ac.uk  Anyone who has previously been successful in this competition is not permitted to re-enter. 

Sir Ian Macdonald commented ‘This competition is an appropriate way of building on the family’s links to the language and culture and of adding to the Gaelic bardic heritage and that of the clan. The theme of this year’s competition affords poets an opportunity to reflect on the history and nature of our culture and heritage.’

Sabhal Mòr Principal, Dr Gillian Rothach, added; ‘Each year it has been a pleasure to read new and uplifting Gaelic poetry from a variety of places, all inspired by the theme of trees, the allegory of which is embedded in Gaelic culture.  I am sure this year’s new poetry, on the subject of the apple tree, will be just as creative, beautiful and relevant.  SMO is delighted to support this competition, which is in memory of Deborah Macdonald.’   

The winner will be announced at a prize giving event at the Museum of the Isles, Armadale Castle on Saturday 21 or 28 September 2019.