Longest running shin-kicking contest

Competitive Shin-Kicking is known to have been taking place since 1636, as part of Robert Dover's Cotswold Olimpicks, held in England since 1612. These Olimpicks were hosted continually until 1644, then again from 1660-1852 with shin-kicking being involved with wrestling. After a further break, the Games were revived on 17 May 1951 for the Festival of Britain, and then annually again since 1965. The next Shin-Kicking tournament will be held on 1 June 2007 during the Robert Dover's Cotswold Olimpicks in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, UK. Interestingly Robert Dover's Olimpicks has been acknowledged by the British Olympic Association as contributing to the history of the actual Olympics! A Stickler (ancient name for the judge) officiates each round, where wrestlers (dressed in traditional shepherd smocks) hold each other by the shoulders and attempt to bring their opponent to the ground whilst kicking their shins! The winner is declared after three bouts in the final round.
Historically, competitors hardened their shins with coal hammers, and used iron-tipped shoes to kick with! Although this is no longer allowed, wrestlers can pad their shins with straw!

The breaks were typically due to outbreaks of foot and mouth, and the World Wars.