In the quaint town of Ashbourne, Derbyshire, an unusual sport draws global attention each year. The annual toe-wrestling competition has become a celebrated tradition, putting this small town on the map as the sport's world capital.
According to the New York Post, the spectacle of prowess and determination, the toe-wrestling competition in Ashbourne determines the world champions amidst enthusiastic crowds.
The origins of toe wrestling trace back to 1974 in the nearby village of Wetton. A group of local drinkers invented the sport, aiming to create a game in which they could excel. This peculiar sport has grown significantly since those humble beginnings, with Ashbourne hosting this world-famous event annually.
Toe wrestling resembles arm wrestling but is conducted with feet. Competitors lock their toes and attempt to pin their opponent’s foot against the "tedium," a special platform designed for this contest. The match involves a strategic battle first with the right foot, then with the left, once a point is scored.
Lisa Shenton and Ben Woodroffe are prominent figures in the world of toe wrestling. Shenton, nicknamed "Twinkletoes," is particularly notable with six world championship titles to her name and aspirations for her seventh win at this year’s event. Woodroffe, known as "Toe-tal Destruction" in the circuits, champions the male division with equal fervor.
"I’m currently the six-time world champion, and I plan on making that seven today," Shenton stated confidently on the day of the competition. Both she and Woodroffe view toe wrestling as more than a quirky local event. They believe in its potential for international acclaim and Olympic recognition.
"This sport has what it takes to be in the Olympics," Woodroffe asserted, echoing a sentiment of many enthusiasts who see great potential for toe wrestling on a global stage. "It’s exactly like arm-wrestling, however, you compete on the toe-dium and you’ve got two upright planks,” he elaborated.
The sport isn't just for fun; it demands serious physical conditioning. Shenton trains rigorously with ankle weights and practices toe-wrestling maneuvers with her partner, Ruth. Meanwhile, Woodroffe has customarily removed his big toenails to avoid discomfort during matches and uses a toe stretcher for training.
"I train with weights on my ankle, [do] stretches and toe wrestle with my partner, Ruth, as much as possible over the year," shared Shenton about her preparation routine. The dedication highlights the competitive nature and physical demands of this niche sport.
Despite these stringent preparations, toe wrestling entails inherent risks. "Toes can break, and it’s common to suffer blisters and sore knees, but the glory is worth it," Woodroffe commented, revealing the less glamorous side of toe wrestling's rigorous battles. Yet, the thrill of competition and the community spirit keep the participants coming back each year.
The recent tournament attracted over 200 spectators who cheered and watched in fascination as competitors from various countries battled for the title. With fans traveling from as far as India, Japan, and Canada, the event's international reach is undeniable.
Woodroffe has also contributed to promoting toe wrestling globally. His efforts include trips to Paris to raise awareness and garner more supporters for the sport. "We need to recruit enough people from different countries to get toe wrestling the worldwide recognition it deserves," he stated, emphasizing the need for a more structured international community of wrestlers.
Reflecting on prospects, Woodroffe remains optimistic about the sport's international potential, comparing it to breakdancing's success in gaining global recognition. "I do not doubt that toe wrestling stands a chance if breakdancing does," he concluded, hopeful that one-day toe wrestling will achieve the esteemed Olympic status it strives for.
