>Medieval
Football - Royal Shrovetide Football in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, UK
No,
its not some sort of a street riot, its Royal Shrovetide
Football in Ashbourne, Derbyshire. This is an ancient
annual sporting event where local Ashbourians divide
themselves into 2 teams - 'The Downards' (those living
on the south side of Henmore Brook) Vs 'The Uppard's'
(those living on the north side). The game is played
on the streets of the town and the goals are positioned
3 miles apart. The game starts at 2:00 p.m. when a
ball is thrown into the centre of the town and then
the mayhem begins. The rules are pretty straightforward,
you are not permitted to kill anyone or make use of
a motorvehicle to carry the ball.
"Cripes,
Ashbourne folk sure know how to have fun! Its a really
REALLY close and physical game, but even when the
game heated-up all the players kept their cool and
the comradeship between the teams was amazing. Its
seriously good fun! "
Shrovetide Football
is primarily an event for the Ashbourne local community.
If you are thinking about becoming involved in the
event please respect the town, its inhabitants, the
rules of the game and the other players. This is a
very good natured event, and everyone I met was extremely
friendly and helpful. Ashbourne is a great place.
A word of warning!
Shrovetide
Football is dangerous and can easily result in serious
injury or possibly death. Participate at your own
risk!
Special thanks:
A special
thanks to Karl Webster and Pete Halls
for their very helpful advice and for showing me the
ropes. Read
their tips.
Doctor Danger Ratings: 82
Danger
(30)
26
Skill (30)
24
Concentration
(10)
9
Fitness (10)
10
Availability
(10)
3
Cost (10)
10
Total
82
The rating
is based advanced level participation were those who
are playing set out to carry the ball. Although it seems
unlikely to get killed playing this game there is a
significant risk of serious injury. Bruises and abrasions
are inevitable.
Travel
Shrovetide Football - Photos & editorial from
a players perspective
