Published on 22 May 2019
Competitors from as far away as France, Germany, England, Norway and Russia will be arriving in Baw Baw Shire shortly to vie for one of the world’s most prestigious crowns – the World Jousting Championships.
The World Jousting Championship takes place the first weekend of June from Saturday 1 to Sunday 2 June 2019 at Lardner Park.
Fuelled by the popularity of shows like Game of Thrones, the ‘world’s first extreme sport’ – solid lance jousting, is experiencing a renaissance as medieval festivals across the globe stage real-life competitions.
Solid lance jousting is the original extreme sport as practiced by medieval nobility. Originating in the 11th century as cavalry training, jousting evolved into the high tournament of the 15th century.
The basic concept of the event is unchanged from medieval times: two armour-clad opponents charge at each other on horses at speeds estimated at 40mph while wielding 11-foot-long wooden lances. The goal is to break your lance on your opponent’s shield.
For more information or to book your tickets, visit www.worldjoustingchampionship.com.au
All event attractions are included in the ticket price.
The event is proudly supported by Baw Baw Shire Council and Latrobe Valley Authority.
Quotes attributable to Mayor Cr Mikaela Power“We are very excited about attracting this world-class event to the region. In addition to the jousting, visitors can wander through a medieval village featuring everything from birds of prey and archery to kid’s knight school and a Shakespearean-inspired tavern.”
“Thousands of tickets have already been sold, so don’t miss this opportunity to come face to face with a medieval knight!”
Quotes attributable to World Jousting Championship Organiser Andrew McKinnon“This competition will feature some of the best jousters in the world, including the current champion, Phillip Leitch, who hails from Ballarat. It promises to be a wonderful spectacle that will leave everyone wanting to see more.”
Image: Mayor Mikaela Power at an exhibition by jousters taking part in the World Jousting Championship last month at Federation Square in Melbourne.