Mighty Lists: February 2010

We all know classic Olympic events like the marathon, downhill skiing, or gymnastics, but unfortunately some events have been relegated to the dustbin of sports history. Gone but not forgotten, here is a reminder of some of those bygone sports...

Tug-of-War

The tug-of-war is a classic summer camp game that every kid knows. Believe it or not it was actually an Olympic event once, last contested in 1920.

Sled Dog Racing

Nowadays we only have the Iditarod for famous sled dog racing, but these mushers were in the Olympics as a demonstration sport back in 1932.

Skijoring

What's sled dog racing without the sled? Skijoring, of course. This is a sport where skiers are pulled by dogs or other animals. Last seen at the Olympics in 1928 as a demonstration sport.

Croquet

Who doesn't have a croquet set in their basement gathering dust? But in years gone by this was actually a popular activity, and it was contested in the Olympics in 1900.

Basque-Pelota

This is a slightly different version of Jai-Alai, which itself an outdated sport last seen on the opening credits if Miami Vice circa 1987. Basque-Pelota was only played once, at the 1900 games, and only 2 teams competed. According to Wikipedia the score is unknown. Thats just sad.

Jeu De Paume

A version of tennis (known as "real tennis" in Britain), this game has been around a few hundred years. Originally this game was played with bare hands instead of rackets. Only played in Olympic competition for medals once, at the 1908 summer games.

Bandy

OK, this is pretty much just like hockey, but played with a ball instead of a puck. Leave it to the Russians, where this sport is still played. This was an Olympic demonstration event in 1952.

Water Motor Sports

Does sailing seem a little too athletic? OK, them just put a motor on the boat and call it a day. Yes, motor boat racing was actually an Olympic event at one time, last competed in 1908.