BERNBEUREN, Germany (AP) — Over 150 Bavarian men gathered in a beer tent in the small village of Bernbeuren to compete in Germany’s national championship of “Fingerhakeln,” or finger wrestling. The contestants, cheered on by around 1,000 visitors, took part in this unique sport that originated as a way to settle disputes in Germany’s Alpine region and neighboring Austria. In each round, two competitors sat on opposite sides of a table, hooked their middle fingers through a leather loop, and tried to pull their opponent across the table. The competition lasted just a few seconds, with dislocated fingers and strained muscles being common occurrences.
Marie-Therese Eierstock, the head of the Fingerhakler Gau Auerberg association that organized this year’s championship, explained that finger wrestling has been popular for a long time in beer houses and pubs across the region. Traditionally, only men are allowed to participate in these competitions, and at the recent tournament, the youngest competitor was 15 years old while the oldest was 70. The sport requires both strength and agility, as the aim is to quickly overpower the opponent and move on to the next round. The atmosphere in the beer tent was lively, with Bavarian live music playing as the contestants competed.
Despite the physical challenges and risks associated with finger wrestling, the competitors seemed undeterred as they prepared for their bouts. The unique nature of the sport attracts both participants and spectators, creating a vibrant and engaging event. New champions were crowned at this year’s championship, with Luis Koegel and Thomas Hipp emerging victorious. The spectators, dressed in traditional clothes, added to the festive atmosphere by cheering on their favorite competitors and soaking in the excitement of the matches.
Finger wrestling is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Alpine region, and these championships serve as a way to showcase this tradition to a wider audience. The event brings together individuals from different age groups and backgrounds, highlighting the universality of sports and competition. Despite the niche nature of finger wrestling, the passion and dedication of the participants is evident in their preparation and performance at the championships. The sense of camaraderie and sportsmanship among the competitors adds to the overall spirit of the event, making it a memorable experience for all involved.
As the winners celebrated their victories and the spectators continued to enjoy the festivities, it was clear that finger wrestling holds a special place in the hearts of the Bavarian community. The championship serves as a platform for these athletes to showcase their skills and strength, as well as to honor the rich tradition of finger wrestling in the region. The success of the event demonstrates the enduring appeal of this unique sport and highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage through sports and competitions. With each bout and each victory, the spirit of finger wrestling lives on, carrying forward the legacy of this traditional Alpine sport.
