Over two hundred competitors from 14 countries are descending on a North Yorkshire town for the world championship first. Axemore Throwing Club is hosting the World Double-Bit Axe Throwing Championship between August 23 and August 25 at Thirsk Racecourse. This is the first time the event has been held in the UK.
Contenders aim at a target section which is ten inches thick, 24 inches across, while they stand 6.1 metres away, usually considered the distance of one full revolution of the axe when thrown.
Axe Throwing - A Growing Sport
The bank holiday weekend brings in competitors from as far afield as Canada and India, as well as Germany and Sweden where the sport is popular. The popularity of axe throwing is on the rise around the world, with many new clubs and competitions popping up.
A Unique Challenge
Ian Radmore, who runs Axemore, explained the unique challenge of double-bit axe throwing. “A double-bit has two blades, and mine weighs over two kilogrammes so you can’t really compare them with a one-handed axe. These are about three feet long and normally used for felling trees.”
A Growing Sport in the UK
The World Double-Bit Axe Throwing Championship is a testament to the growing popularity of the sport in the UK. “There are double-bit clubs here and we held national qualifiers to get people throwing and to try and open the sport up a bit more,” said Ian. “I threw in Canada in 2022 and while we were over there I made a bid to get the world champs over here.”
A Three-Day Event
Volunteers and supporters have been busy setting up ahead of the competition which has been planned for two years and covers five categories over the three days. The event is expected to attract thousands of spectators, who will be treated to a thrilling display of axe throwing skill.
A Thrilling Spectacle
The World Double-Bit Axe Throwing Championship promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with competitors from around the world vying for the top spot. With its unique challenge and growing popularity, axe throwing is a sport that is sure to continue to capture the imaginations of audiences worldwide.
The Future of Axe Throwing
With the success of the World Double-Bit Axe Throwing Championship, it is clear that axe throwing is here to stay. The sport is poised for continued growth in the UK and around the world. Axe throwing offers a unique and exciting opportunity for competitors and spectators alike. As the sport continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for axe throwing and what new heights it can reach.
