Shin-Kicking Anyone?

This was first originated in England in the 17^th century and at one point was one of the most popular events at the Cotswold Olimpick Games until the games officially ended in the 1850ties.

It also became a pastime among Cornish miners and in the 19^th century was a sport that was practiced by the British immigrants to the US.

During each round, the combatants face each other and hold on to each other’s collar. Traditionally (in the Cotswold Olimpicks) they wear white coats, representing shepherds’ smocks.

They typically attempt to strike their opponent’s shin with the inside of the foot as well as their toes.

One must only be able to withstand pain and for this the game is controlled by a referee and the rules are simple.

The “kickers,” as they are called, pair up, holding each other’s shoulders while each kicker attempts to knock down his or her opponent using only kicks to the shin.

Best out of three wins each round, and competitors may use only straw stuffed into socks or pant legs to pad their shins.

All you need for this game is 4 shins and a high tolerance for pain. Popularized by immigrants coming to the United States from the UK (where else?) it has found a niche in pop culture and become a staple of legendary manliness.

Some say that many of the shin-kickers actually wore steel-toe boots, but in today’s game they are only allowed to wear soft shoes and stuff their trousers legs with straw padding.

The event in 2014 was actually won by Ross Langill (24) who comes from Vancouver, who won the title of the Shin-Kicking World Championship.

He defeated Zak Warren, who was the previous two-time world champ

The event takes place annually in Gloucestershire, England.

Oh yea – doctors and an ambulance crew are on hand for those injured.

Are we surprised?