Archery, bicycling, boxing… yawn. How about chess boxing or joggling instead? Intrigued, yet?
Click start to play today’s Word Search and spot various types of sports.
While we’re all familiar with major sports that are played on an international level, there exists a niche audience that roots for, and pays to view unique sporting contests you may never have heard of. Imaginative and innovative people around the world participate in these contests, that often occur annually. And while they don’t have a massive following, it doesn’t mean they are any less competitive and riveting.
Here are a few to note:
1. Joggling
It might appear funny at first glance, but the sport that combines running and juggling actually is a gruelling test of balance, endurance, and hand-eye coordination. Most jogglers use palm-sized beanbags stuffed with bird seed because they are light enough for long distances, but heavy enough that they don’t get blown away by the wind. The World Joggling Championships, which were originally held in 1980, occur annually either in the US or Canada, include races from 100m to 5km.
2. Chess boxing
Another strange sport at first glance, chess boxing takes the patience, strategy and skill of chess, and adds in a physical element that leaves players black and blue. The sport comprises of both boxing matches and chess games, and the champion can win through moves on the board or a knockout in the ring. The sport is gaining popularity in places like Germany, the UK, India and Russia.
3. Snowkiting
Skiing and snowboarding are both adrenaline-fuelled sports, but add a parachute-like kite and wind power, and you elevate it to the next level: snowkiting. The sport gives people the ability to go both up and down hills, allowing them to soar up or down a slope while doing 360-twists and other stunts. As thrilling as it is to participate in, the sport is just as fun to watch.
4. Octopush
This sport is basically underwater hockey. Two teams of six push around a puck at the bottom of a swimming pool, using mini sticks and snorkels. Started in 1954 by Briton Alan Blake, the sport was a way for him to keep members of his swim club interested and active during the winter months. Now, the sport is played worldwide, with the Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques or the World Underwater Federation as its governing body.
Do you know of or play any of these sports? Play today’s Word Search and tell us at games@gulfnews.com.
