From Tug of War to Skijoring, top 10 strangest games in Olympics that actually existed

The Olympic Games have a long and storied history, showcasing the pinnacle of athletic achievement and sportsmanship. Originating in ancient Greece, the Games were revived in the late 19th century and have since grown into a global phenomenon, featuring a diverse range of sports and events.

While many events have become staples of the Games, attracting athletes and spectators from around the world, others have been relegated to the dustbin of history, forgotten or replaced as the landscape of sports has evolved.

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However, not all sports have stood the test of time. Tug-of-war, for example, was once a competitive event in the early 20th century but was discontinued after 1920.

Similarly, events like rope climbing and live pigeon shooting, which may seem strange to modern audiences, were part of the Olympic program at various points in history. These events have faded away, making room for new disciplines that better reflect contemporary interests and values.

As we look forward to this year's Games, it's fascinating to reflect on how the event has changed over time. The Olympic Games continue to honour their ancient roots while embracing modernity, celebrating the diverse and ever-changing world of sports.

Here are 10 of the weirdest events to have ever been featured at the Olympics:

1. Pistol Duelling (1900) - Competitors shot at each other with wax bullets.

In the 1908 London Olympics, Pistol Duelling featured two male competitors firing at each other with pistols loaded with wax bullets wearing protective equipment for their torso, face and hands. pic.twitter.com/KoiVu35A6X

¡ª Quite Interesting (@qikipedia) November 2, 2018

2. Live Pigeon Shooting (1900) - Shooters aimed at live pigeons released from traps.

3. Tug of War (1900-1920) - Teams competed to see who could pull the hardest.

4. Croquet (1900) - A backyard game that became an Olympic event for one year.

Croquet was dropped as an Olympic sport in 1900 because only one spectator turned up to watch. pic.twitter.com/cwn3HHUzjU

¡ª Weird History (@weird_hist) March 9, 2018

5. Poodle Clipping (1900) - Groomers competed to see who could clip the most poodles in a set time.

6. Pelote Basque (1900) - A game played with a ball and a long scoop-like racket.

7. Motorboating (1908) - A speedboat racing event that was discontinued due to safety concerns.

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8. Lacrosse (1904-1908) - Although still played today, its early Olympic history was marked by controversy.

9. Jeu de Paume (1908) - An indoor version of tennis played in a large room.

10. Skijoring (1924) - Competitors were pulled behind horses while on skis.

#throwbackThursday 1928 Winter Olympics had a sport called Horse Skijoring #horsehour #equestrianhour pic.twitter.com/FjRYbQEt0X

¡ª Polowrap.com (@polowrap) November 19, 2015

These events may have been strange, but they all contributed to the rich and varied history of the Olympic Games.

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