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Known as Dyke jumping in Briton, it is more widely known across Europe as Fierljeppen (far leaping). Dyke jumping is the sport of jumping across water aided by a pole. Dyke jumping is the pole vaulting equivalent of long jump.
Popularity
Fierljeppen, (the Dutch equivalant to Dyke Jumping) is a traditional Frisian/Dutch/Fen sport and one of the most complex athletic sports known. In Briton it is now mainly competed as a social spectacle drawing large crowds of spectators.
Location
Dyke jumping is confined mainly to western Europe. In Briton it is confined to the Fens or areas with natural ditches or dykes. The sport originated from farmers and animal keepers who used poles to quickly jump dykes to visit different plots of land
Age
There is no official sex or age restriction in dyke jumping, a competitor must be at an age when they have developed full upper body strength, normally 16 or 18 years. The most successful jumpers tend to be aged between 25 and 35 years
Ability
Because of all the diverse skills required to be a dyke jumper, Successful dyke jumpers are considered to be very complete athletes, with superbly developed strength and co-ordination.
Description
A flexible pole is set upright in the stretch of water to be jumped. A jump consists of an intense sprint to the pole, jumping and grabbing it, climbing to the top of the pole to gain ultimate distance whilst at the same time trying to control the forward and lateral movements over the stretch of water to be jumped, the intention of the jump is to finish with a graceful landing on a sand bed on the opposite bank to the start.
Dedication
Although like most fun or socially contested sports, competitors take part with no practise what so ever to be successful practise is essential to develop the necessary co-ordination and balance needed to make a perfect jump.
Potential
The potential of Dyke jumping is local reputation and the winning of individual events. although to most taking part in the social events , the ultimate ambition is properly keeping dry and free from mud?
Closely
Related Activities
Fierljeppen (Holland) 752, Pultstock-jumping (East Frisia) 753, Pole vaulting 36.
Cost
There are no costs involved with this activity, other than any event entrance fee which is normally minimal.
Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.
Energy |
Arms
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Legs
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Sight
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Hearing
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Speech |
Learning |
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