After overcoming safety and health concerns, an ancient sport that saw competitors swiping at each other’s legs is finally making a comeback.
Since their inception in 1701 the National Shinkicking Championships have been attracting thousands of people from all over the country.
The coronavirus restriction has led to the cancellation of the event.
But after a £5,000 funding boost from the county council, the games will return in 2022.
Since their inception in 1701 the National Shinkicking Championships have been attended by thousands since then in Chipping Campden in Gloucestershire.
The money, which was drawn from a Build Back Better Market Towns’ fund, is meant to revive struggling local economies. Robert Dover’s Games Society welcomes it. This society runs the Cotswold Olimpick Games, where the popular shin-kicking contest is held.
It was viewed not only as a triumph over Covid, but also the modern safety and medical requirements that many enthusiasts regard as an interference.
Andy Norton, Chairman of Robert Dover’s Games Society said that he was extremely grateful to Gloucestershire County Council for their support. This means that he can be confident that the 2022 Cotswold Olympics will be an unforgettable day for his local community as well as for hundreds of tourists from far and wide.
‘While Robert Dover’s Games Society members give of their energy and time for no cost, it is not free. However, this event has a lot of expenses.
These fees include the hire of marquees, fireworks and torchlights for the parade, as well as sports equipment and safety services.
“Aside from all the operational expenses, we’re also adding a few enhancements to our site to increase online tickets, donations, and merchandise sales.
“This will enable us to fund the games well in advance of 2022,” said a spokesperson.
Richard Caborn was a former Sports Minister who disassociated himself from the fanatical shinkicking fanbase.
Due to coronavirus restrictions, the showpiece event was cancelled in both years.
He told the Telegraph: ‘Can it even be defined as a sport? This is barbaric.
“Is there a skill? It is best for them to not do it. To me, this doesn’t qualify as sport.
It’s unlikely that it will catch on. You won’t see it in the Olympics. It’s insane, I believe.