The 65th national championship in the traditional Alpine sport of Fingerhakeln (finger wrestling) took place in the Bavarian village of Pflugdorf-Stadl, reports infohub.kz.
The tournament drew about 150 athletes dressed in traditional Bavarian costumes. The competition was held at a special table where opponents sat facing each other, hooking a leather strap with their middle fingers. At the referee's signal, participants tried to pull their opponent to their side. The bouts lasted only a few seconds and were often accompanied by scrapes or finger injuries. Behind each athlete, assistants stood ready to catch them if their grip slipped.
This historic sport originated in the 19th century as a way to settle everyday disputes. In modern times, competitions are held under strict rules in several weight and age categories. Victory depends on technique and the proper transfer of force to the leather loop.