International Tug-of-War Day

International Tug-of-War Day is observed next on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025 (90 days from today).

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International

Today, along with the development of modern science and technology, people's lives have become more comfortable and modern. However, everything has its pros and cons, just like anything. Especially when modern games were born, folk games were gradually forgotten, no one mentioned or played it. One of the old folk games that was loved by many people was the game of tug of war, a very interesting game. And everyone should have a day in the year to play this interesting game again. Every year February 19 is National Tug of War Day, an opportunity for everyone to help bring people back to the old days with the excitement that tug of war brings.

Tug of war is a sport where two teams compete against each other. From there, they will show their collective strength. Each team will pull on one end of the rope and apply force. The purpose is to bring the wire a certain distance in one direction. Simultaneously resist the pull of the opposing team.

The game of tug of war requires great endurance and solidarity. During the game, the hand can be easily blistered and painful, but ignoring the fatigue, the feeling of winning is also very fun. Although the game is simple, it always receives the support of both players and fans. Everyone cheering, cheering, banging gongs and drums to strengthen the spirit of the participating teams.

Tug of war is often played during festivals and summer camps as a way to bond with each other and show solidarity in schools and organizations.

The game of tug of war’s Origin

The origin of the game of tug of war is uncertain. However this game has very ancient origins.

It is thought to have originated in Cambodia, Ancient Egypt, Greece, India and China. According to a Tang Dynasty book, tug of war is annotated under the name "pull-pull", used since the Zhou Dynasty during the spring and autumn period. It is used by military commands to train warriors. During the Tang Dynasty, Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty promoted large-scale games of tug of war. The game uses ropes up to 167 meters and more than 500 people on each end. Each side also has its own drumming team to encourage the participants.

In ancient Greece, this sport was called helkustinda, efelkustinda and dielkustinda. Helkustinda and efelkustinda seem to be normal versions of tug of war. While dielkustinda had no strings, the teams held hands while pulling. This game in ancient Greece is one of the most popular games used to increase strength.

Archaeological evidence also shows that tug of war was also popular in India in the 12th century. There is no specific time and place in history to determine the origin of the game of tug of war. The rope pulling competition has its roots in ancient rituals. Evidence found on a stone bas-relief clearly shows this game in progress.

Tug of war becomes a sport

The first tug of war competition was held during the 1904 Summer Olympics, many tug of war clubs in many countries participated.

The sport was part of the Olympic Games from 1900 to 1920. However, it was later discontinued in the Olympics. The International Tug of War Federation (TWIF), organizes world championships for teams every six months. Content includes both indoor and outdoor tug of war competitions.

In the UK, the sport was officially regulated by the AAA until 1984. But now the sport is regulated by the Tug of War Association (founded in 1958) and the Tug of War Federation of Great Britain (founded in 1958). In Scotland, the Scottish Tug of War Association was founded in 1980. The sport is also featured in the Highland Games there.

From 1976 to 1988 tug of war was a regular event. The TV show Battle of the Network Stars talks about this game. Teams of celebrity representatives compete in various sporting events. Lou Ferrigno's epic tug of war in May 1979

Rules of tug of war

Tug of war is one of the oldest games known to man. Today it is still a popular sport that showcases the strength of two teams. In the world there is the International Tug of War Federation with more than 50 countries affiliated with it. There are many variations of the game around the world.

History Of International Tug Of War Day

Up to now, there are no documents indicating the specific origin or founder of International Tug Of War Day. However, because the game of tug of war offers many benefits, they are welcome everywhere in almost 50 countries. Even UNESCO has included the game of tug of war on the list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Observing International Tug Of War Day

In celebration of international tug of war, there is certainly no better activity than your participation in this team game. Go out with your friends, and have a tug of war. Surely the game will make your picnic more exciting and fun. You can also organize a game of tug of war on campus for your students if you are a teacher. Let's create a useful playground for students so that they can develop more comprehensively. Share your celebration of international tug of war on social media with the hashtag #InternationalTugOfWar.

Observed

International Tug-of-War Day has been observed annually on February 19th.

Dates

Sunday, February 19th, 2023

Monday, February 19th, 2024

Wednesday, February 19th, 2025

Thursday, February 19th, 2026

Friday, February 19th, 2027

Also on Wednesday, February 19th, 2025