With the excitement of the Barclays Premier League kicking off soon, it’s the perfect time to explore some of the most unusual sports competitions around the globe. These quirky events may capture the attention of curious sports fans back home and offer a unique reason to travel. Here’s a rundown of some of the weirdest and most entertaining competitions you can witness.

First on the list is Underwater Hockey, a thrilling sport where two teams compete to push a puck along the bottom of a swimming pool. Equipped with snorkels and mini hockey sticks, players from over 40 countries flocked to Hungary for the last World Championships in 2013. It’s an extraordinary way to enjoy a unique aquatic experience!

If quirky competitions are your thing, you won’t want to miss the Fenny Bentley World Toe Wrestling Championship, hosted annually in the charming English village of Fenny Bentley. The winner earns the title of the wrestling champion, making it a fun and lighthearted event where England often takes the crown.

Next, let’s talk about Shovel Racing, which originated as a whimsical way for ski lift operators to descend mountains swiftly. Participants can reach up to 60 mph speeds while sliding down slopes in the USA. Although this exhilarating sport was once featured in the X Games, it was deemed too risky, so you might have to catch a glimpse while on a ski holiday!

If exploring unique traditions intrigues you, consider heading to Indonesia for the Areca Tree Climbing Competition. Celebrated annually on Independence Day, this competition sees teams race to the top of a greased Areca Tree for fantastic prizes. Other exciting tree-climbing events occur globally, making it a thrilling experience for adventurers.

For those who crave an adrenaline rush mixed with quirky fun, there’s Extreme Ironing. This bizarre sport, which combines extreme sports with ironing, has enthusiasts taking their boards to beautiful, daring locations, including bungee jumping sites. If you’re planning to visit New Zealand, don’t forget to bring your ironing board for the ultimate adventure!

And who can forget Wife Carrying? This lighthearted competition is popular in several countries, but the World Championships take place every July in Finland. If you’re drawn to adventure and romance simultaneously, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Lastly, Extreme Zorbing and the Kukri Zorbing Championship Challenge are perfect for thrill-seekers. Imagine racing in giant inflatable balls—it’s an absorbing experience that you can enjoy either as a participant or a spectator.

From Toe Wrestling to Extreme Ironing, the world is full of unusual sports waiting to be discovered. Do you have any other strange competitions we should include in our list? Share your thoughts in the comments below! As always, if you’re looking for sports travel packages to experience these incredible events firsthand, contact us for tailored sports travel options!