11 Strange Sports Still Played Around the World

Sports are a universal language, but some games have a bit of an unexpected twist. Across the globe, there are strange and fascinating sports that might leave you wondering how they even came to be. These sports often hold cultural significance, making them more than just a game. Whether you are curious about their origins or simply enjoy the unique rules, these sports offer something truly different. 

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Sepak Takraw

Sepak Takraw is a sport that originated in Southeast Asia and is particularly popular in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, and players use their feet, head, knees, and chest to hit the ball over the net. The game combines elements of martial arts and gymnastics, making it a fast-paced and visually exciting sport. Sepak Takraw competitions are held at various levels, including international tournaments, with many fans tuning in to watch this unique game in action.

This sport requires exceptional agility and coordination. Players must be quick on their feet and able to perform acrobatic kicks and jumps. Sepak Takraw has gained international recognition, with countries across Asia and beyond developing competitive teams. Its cultural significance and distinctive style make it a favorite for sports enthusiasts looking for something different.

Kabaddi

Kabaddi is a team sport popular in India and other parts of South Asia. The game involves two teams of seven players each, with one team sending a raider into the opposing team’s half of the field. The raider must touch as many opponents as possible and return to their own side, all while holding their breath and chanting “kabaddi.” The opposing team tries to stop the raider by tackling them.

This game is both physically demanding and strategic, as players need to be agile and quick-thinking. Kabaddi has a deep cultural connection to India, where it is often played in rural villages and has even evolved into a professional sport. In recent years, Kabaddi has gained international popularity through leagues like the Pro Kabaddi League, which has brought attention to the sport’s growing fan base.

Cheese Rolling

Cheese rolling is an unusual and thrilling sport that has been held for centuries in Gloucestershire, England. In this event, participants race down a steep hill after a wheel of cheese that is rolled ahead of them. The first person to cross the finish line at the bottom of the hill wins the cheese. Though it sounds simple, the steep slope and high speeds make this a dangerous and often chaotic race.

The tradition of cheese rolling draws thousands of spectators each year. While injuries are common, the event is seen as a fun and lighthearted competition. Despite its risks, cheese rolling has become a beloved spectacle that combines athleticism, bravery, and, of course, cheese. It is a must-see event for those seeking something truly out of the ordinary in sports.

Buzkashi

Buzkashi, also known as “goat dragging,” is a sport deeply rooted in Central Asian cultures, particularly in Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan. The game is played on horseback, where riders compete to grab a headless goat carcass and carry it to a designated area. The chaotic nature of the game makes it intense and fast-paced, with riders using their horses to outmaneuver their opponents. Buzkashi is often referred to as the national sport of Afghanistan.

The sport requires strength, teamwork, and strategy. It is traditionally played during festivals and major events, attracting large crowds of spectators. Buzkashi has a rich cultural significance, symbolizing bravery, honor, and the bond between horse and rider. This sport continues to thrive in the region, despite the challenges of modern times.

Hornussen

Hornussen is a traditional Swiss sport that combines elements of baseball and golf. Players use a wooden stick to strike a rubber puck known as the “Hornuss” toward a target area, while the opposing team tries to intercept the puck with large wooden paddles. The game is often played in rural parts of Switzerland, where it has been a pastime for centuries. Hornussen requires a combination of precision, skill, and teamwork to succeed.

Though it is not as widely known as other sports, Hornussen has a dedicated following in Switzerland. The sport has a unique rhythm, with players running to chase down the Hornuss and attempt to defend the target area. Today, it is still played in regional tournaments, often attracting large crowds. Its quirky nature and fun gameplay make it a standout among lesser-known sports.

Quidditch

Inspired by the magical sport from J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series, Muggle Quidditch has become a popular sport in real life. Played on broomsticks or brooms, the game involves four balls and seven players on each team. The objective is to score by getting the Quaffle ball through the opponent’s hoops, while avoiding Bludgers and chasing the Golden Snitch. The game combines elements of rugby, dodgeball, and tag, making it a fast and energetic sport.

Quidditch was first introduced to the real world in 2005 at Middlebury College in Vermont, and since then, it has grown into a global phenomenon. Now, many universities and clubs around the world have their own Quidditch teams. The sport requires speed, coordination, and a great deal of teamwork, as players must constantly switch between offense and defense. Quidditch’s growth highlights the power of fandom and the creativity of combining imagination with athleticism.

Wife Carrying

Wife carrying is a quirky sport that originated in Finland and has since spread to other countries. In this event, male competitors race while carrying their female partners through an obstacle course. The course includes hurdles, water hazards, and even sand traps, and the goal is to finish the course in the fastest time possible. The sport has its origins in the 19th century, but it has gained international attention, with competitions held worldwide.

While it started as a fun challenge, wife carrying has evolved into a competitive event. The event is celebrated for its lighthearted nature, as well as its emphasis on teamwork. Some contests even feature substantial prizes for the winners. The World Wife Carrying Championship, held annually in Finland, continues to attract large crowds and participants from various countries. This sport is a mix of athleticism and humor, making it a fan favorite.

Shinty

Shinty is a Scottish sport that has been played for centuries and is similar to field hockey. The game is played with a ball and wooden sticks, where teams of 12 players attempt to score goals by hitting the ball into the opposing team’s net. Shinty has a strong tradition in Scotland, especially in the Highlands, where it was played as far back as the 15th century. The sport requires a combination of skill, strategy, and physical toughness.

While shinty is not as widely recognized outside of Scotland, it has a passionate following. The game is known for its fast pace and physicality, as players must work together to defend their goal and score. Shinty leagues and competitions are still held in Scotland today, with the sport being an integral part of the country’s sporting culture. For those seeking a high-energy team sport with a rich history, shinty offers an exciting experience.

Toe Wrestling

Toe wrestling is an offbeat sport that involves two competitors attempting to pin each other’s feet to the ground using only their toes. The game is similar to arm wrestling, but with the added challenge of balance and flexibility in the feet. It originated in England in the 1970s and has since become an amusing spectacle in local competitions. Participants must use their feet in creative ways to force their opponent’s foot to the ground.

The World Toe Wrestling Championship is held annually in England, drawing participants from around the world. The sport has a cult following, with fans enjoying the ridiculousness and skill involved in each match. Though it may seem odd, toe wrestling requires a surprising amount of strength and strategy, especially for those with flexible feet. It remains a quirky, fun, and accessible sport for those looking for something truly unique.

Hurling

Hurling is a traditional Irish sport that has been played for over 3,000 years. It involves two teams of 15 players each, who use a wooden stick to hit a small ball and score points by sending it over the opponent’s goalposts. The game is fast-paced and incredibly physical, combining elements of field hockey, lacrosse, and soccer. Hurling is celebrated for its speed, skill, and rich cultural significance in Ireland.

Though it is most popular in Ireland, the sport is played in various regions around the world by Irish communities. Hurling has an amateur league system in Ireland, with teams competing for provincial and national titles. The sport is recognized as one of the fastest field games in the world due to its high-speed action. Hurling is a key part of Irish identity, and its excitement continues to draw large crowds at major events.

Calcio Storico

Calcio Storico is a violent and historic sport that originated in Florence, Italy, during the 16th century. It is a mix of soccer, rugby, and boxing, with two teams attempting to score goals by getting a ball into the opposing team’s net. The game is played on a field with very few rules, allowing players to tackle, punch, and fight as they try to move the ball. Calcio Storico is known for its brutal nature, and injuries are common.

The sport is still played today during an annual festival in Florence, where teams represent different districts of the city. Calcio Storico is more of a spectacle than a regular sport, drawing large crowds to watch the intense and chaotic matches. Though it is not played professionally, it remains an important part of Florence’s cultural heritage. The event serves as both a historical reenactment and a fiercely competitive challenge.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.