JOUSTING

This is the pinnacle of Knightly Endeavour.

Jousting is one of the oldest sports in the world, and the men and women who practise it are continuing a knightly tradition centuries old. All the jousters at the Taupo tournament are highly trained international competitors who delight in showcasing their prowess and skill at the Tilt. This is, quite simply, one of the greatest live spectacles you will ever see.

HISTORY -

The image of fully armoured knights charging toward each other on richly caparisoned steeds is one of the most endearing and heroic in history. It is an image easily conjured by almost anyone with even the most scant appreciation for heritage. But what was it all about?

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THE TAUPO CHALLENGE. -

We're done with sport, this time its war.

Last year we challenged Australia's best to compete against the best New Zealand had to offer. We fought them off in some hard won passes, and this year we're going the whole hog.

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COMPETITORS -

This year we have 6 competitors who are mad enough not only to test their skills in the mounted arena but also in ground combat as well - 4 events in total!

There are three New Zealanders and three international riders taking part - forming two teams. The team with the highest score takes away the Taupo Team Challenge Trophy. The rider with the highest personal score takes away the main prize of this year's tournament - The Taupo Knight's Challenge.

 

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THE N.Z JOUSTING CHAMPIONSHIPS -

This hotly contested competition is New Zealand's largest competitive joust.

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MOUNTED MELEE -

In the Mounted Melee, Knights on horseback attempt to strike the crest from each other's helmets using heavy clubs, swords or maces.

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SKILL AT ARMS -

Mounted skill at arms is run by both squires and knights alike.

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