Buzz
Competitiveness is an inherent trait in humans. Virtually any activity becomes more enjoyable when turned into a contest, with the victor basking in glory and the satisfaction of being the best. However, some of these unusual competitions may leave others baffled as to how one could excel—or even why anyone would participate in the first place.
10. Shin Kicking
Shin kicking, an age-old practice dating back centuries, was once a children's pastime. However, it evolved into a more intense sport in the 17th century when it became part of the Olimpicks, a festival of games held in Gloucestershire, England. Participants face off, aiming to topple their opponent with precise kicks to the shins. While grappling with their arms, they deliver blows to weaken their adversary. The first to fall after a kick loses. Originally, competitors wore metal-toed boots, often leading to bloody outcomes. In modern times, softer footwear is used, and participants pad their trouser legs with straw for safety.
9. Naki Sumo
Every year, the Sensoji Temple in Tokyo hosts a unique competition involving infants—specifically, babies. Known as the crying baby contest, it stands out because crying is typically not associated with victory. Two student sumo wrestlers each hold a baby and attempt to make them cry by making exaggerated facial expressions. A sumo referee determines the winner based on which baby cries first or the loudest. The contest is believed to bring good health to the winning baby, though it might spell bad luck for the likely exhausted mother of Japan's most vocal infant.
8. Insect Eating
Unlike the previous contests, this one is not rooted in tradition but rather serves as a publicity stunt. Unfortunately, it ended in tragedy for the winner. Hosted at the Ben Siegel Reptile Store in Florida, the challenge was to eat the most insects, with the prize being a python. Participants consumed mealworms, darkling beetle larvae, and a bucket of cockroaches. Shortly after winning, Edward Archbold was seen vomiting outside the store. Soon after, he felt increasingly unwell and was rushed to the hospital, where he passed away. The cause of death remains unknown, though a rare allergic reaction to the insects is suspected. The prize python will be awarded to his estate.
7. Wife Carrying
In Sonkajärvi, Finland, an annual competition challenges participants to carry their wives through an obstacle course in the shortest time possible. Originally, the course included wooden fences and boulders, but now it consists of a 250-meter track with a water section. The winning couple receives beer equivalent to the wife's weight. A rule stipulates that the wife must weigh at least 49kg, likely to ensure the prize is worthwhile. The event's popularity has inspired similar competitions in the US and Asia.
6. Ugliest Dog
While human beauty pageants are now often viewed as outdated and sexist, at least the winner of Miss World gains a sense of pride. In contrast, the World’s Ugliest Dog contest, held annually in Petaluma, California, is a charity event that celebrates the least aesthetically pleasing canines. Dogs from around the globe compete, with the winner receiving $1,000, a stash of treats, and significant media attention for their unconventional appearance. Interestingly, while human beauty contests avoid racial bias, the animal world seems to have its own form of prejudice. The Chinese Crested breed dominates the list of past winners, though a glance at their photos might explain why.
5. Cheese-Rolling
Every year in Gloucestershire, the Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling event takes place. Participants gather at the top of a steep hill, and at the signal, a round Double Gloucester cheese is sent rolling down. The goal is to catch the cheese, but its speed and lack of concern for broken bones make it nearly impossible to catch. Instead, the winner is the first person to cross the finish line, claiming the cheese and braving the climb back up. Despite concerns over injuries from tumbling down the hill, the event’s popularity ensures its continuation.
4. Mr. Elderly Beauty Contest
The Mr. Elderly contest in Brazil was created to determine the most handsome grandfather. Participants must be aged 60 or above. The competition features multiple rounds, including dancing and smiling, aimed at promoting health and vitality among the elderly. To support the contestants, a group of elderly women perform as a dancing troupe, adding cheer and encouragement to the event.
3. Ottery St Mary Tar Barrels
In the village of Ottery St Mary, the tradition of carrying flaming tar barrels is a test of bravery, strength, and endurance. Every November 5th, barrels soaked in tar for weeks are brought into the village. Outside each pub, a barrel is placed on someone’s back, set ablaze, and carried as far as possible. When the first carrier becomes too exhausted or burned, the barrel is passed to another runner. This continues until the barrel can no longer be carried, at which point another is lit. The event includes separate categories for children and women.
2. Bog Snorkelling
Since 1985, the Bog Snorkelling Championship has been held in the peat bogs of Waen Rhydd, Wales. Each year, 60-yard trenches are dug, which quickly fill with dark, peat-filled water. Competitors must snorkel through these murky trenches without using traditional swimming strokes, relying solely on their legs and permitted flippers. The water is so opaque that some participants have resurfaced facing the wrong direction after becoming disoriented underwater.
1. Areca Tree Climbing
In Bali, Indonesian Independence Day is celebrated with various contests, including the challenging Areca tree climbing competition. Participants scale greased poles made from Areca nut tree trunks, with prizes placed at different heights—small treats near the bottom and bicycles at the top. Due to the difficulty, teams of four work together, often forming human pyramids. One person clings to the pole while others climb onto their shoulders, allowing the final team member to reach the top and claim the reward.
