The Games

Shin-Kicking

The media’s favourite (for some strange reason!). It’s one of the sports which took place in 1612, and we’re still doing it to this day. You will be pleased to know that although we’ve made it a bit safer since those days – Steel toe caps are banned, and we allow the use of straw to pad shins. Entry is free and registration takes place on the night, from 6.30pm.

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Are you ready to take on the challenge?

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The Rules

Rules of the Game

The media’s favourite. Shin Kicking is a popular sport and dates back to 1612, since then we have altered the rules to make this lovable sport safer for all involved.

Preparing for the event

  • Competitors must wear long trousers or tracksuits
  • Competitors may cushion their shins by using straw provided by the event organisers
  • Footwear may be trainers, shoes, or soft-toed boots.
  • Any form of metal-reinforced toe on footwear is expressly forbidden. Failure to comply will result in instant exclusion and barring from future events.

Rules of engagement

  • The bout starts with the competitors putting their hands on each other's shoulders with their arms straight.
  • Whilst maintaining that position, they must then try to kick each other in the shins with the aim of unbalancing their opponent then throwing them to the floor.
  • Whoever achieves the most throws over three rounds is declared the winner.
  • Competitors will be disqualified if they kick their opponent anywhere above or below the shin.
  • If a competitor throws their opponent without a raising one leg and connecting with the opponent’s shin, the throw will be given to their opponent.
  • The contest will be started, finished and judged by a referee, known as a Stickler.
  • The Stickler decides the fairness and the result of each contest.
The Competition

Who will be champion?

  • Usually, there will be up to 16 contestants, all of whom must register on Dover’s Hill on the day of the competition.
  • Competitors will be assigned bouts at random, with winners of all rounds gaining entry to the next stage, until 2 finalists are decided.
  • The winner of the final round will become the Cotswold Olimpicks World Shin-Kicking Champion of 2024

Want to compete?

Are you ready to take on the challenge?

Compete