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Pigeon Shooting To Tug Of War: 7 Bizarre Sports You Might Not Know Were Part Of Olympics
The Olympic fever is at an all-time high, with medals and controversies making the Paris Olympics the talk of the town. But did you know that the Olympics have featured some unusual sports over the years? From the 1900 Paris Games, which included croquet and tug-of-war, to the 1924 Chamonix Winter Games, where curling made its debut, these unique sports added a distinctive flair. Scroll down to explore some of the most unusual sports that have graced the Olympics.
Tug Of War
This unusual Olympic sport, featured from 1900 to 1920, had teams of eight pulling on a rope in a test of strength and teamwork.
Pigeon Shooting
An unusual event in the 1900 Paris Games, where competitors aimed at live pigeons, leading to the extinction of over 300 birds.
Lacrosse
This unusual sport, played at the 1904 and 1908 Olympics, involved teams using sticks to maneuver a small ball into the opposing team's goal.
Basque Pelota
An unusual game from the 1900 Paris Games, where players hit a ball against a wall using their hands or a racket in a unique display of skill.
Equestrian Dressage
This unusual event in the Olympics showcases horses performing precise movements in a highly structured routine, emphasizing the bond between rider and steed.
Fencing (Electric Sabre)
An advancement in the 1920s Olympics, this innovation used electrical scoring to determine touches and enhance accuracy.
Speed Skiing
An unusual and thrilling Olympic sport, speed skiing involved athletes racing downhill at breakneck speeds, testing their courage and control.