Local foam warriors The Hundred Swords held an exhibition match on Saturday behind the National Library.
Sadly I was working all morning, but I did manage to swing by after lunch and spend some time as a spectator.
What I saw was brilliant.
The action was fast and brutal. There were feats of bravery, cunning, and strength.
Feats.
How often does one see feats these days? Not often enough.
Somewhere between 60-80 warriors (most in full costume) were in attendance, and a variety of games were played ranging from small team skirmishes to games of capture the flag.
As a sport I found it fascinating. Everyone begins a match with a number of points, between 3 and 7, depending on your gear. Land a legal blow to an opponent and you reduce their point total, landing illegal blows (like hitting someone in the head) reduces your point total. Hit zero points and you’re dead. Simple enough.
Interestingly the game works on an honour system, with players keeping track of their own ‘points’ and letting others know when they’re low on points and ready to be taken out of the game. It relies on honesty and respect, and it was hard not to be a little impressed by the sportsmanship on display.
I observed exactly one argument in the hours I was there. Two players were both trying to make their case that the other had won the previous exchange. Seriously.
If you’re keen to get involved have a look at their rules.
I took a few photos of the action, check them out in the slideshow below.
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