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The ultimate equestrian
sport, jousting evolved from military exercises in the 12th century,
and came into its own by its heyday in the 15th century. A spectacle
on par with the largest modern sporting events, people traveled from
near and far to cheer on their champions, and were dazzled by the
pomp, pageantry and colour surrounding them.
Dormant for 400 years, jousting flourishes again today, revived by
fans and competitors for whom the thunder of horses hooves, the
glint of steel and the excitement of a skillful lance strike are
just as thrilling now as they were so long ago.
Today, competitive jousting is popular in countries around the
world, from New Zealand to Sweden. On any summer weekend thousands
of international fans flock to tournaments where men in armour
engage in no holds barred competition. |
