Abbeystowe Challenger Clash

The name originates from the Old French word “béhourd’ which means to “wallop”. Tournaments and buhurt gatherings are held all around the world, but the sport is most popular in Europe. Those brave enough to take part aim to knock down their opponent, using blows and various mixed-martial arts takedown techniques.

As an internationally recognised sport, there are rules in place for scoring and judging the winner.

Read the official Buhurt International Rules

Buhurt was a popular form of combat in medieval Europe, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries. Knights and armored warriors would engage in these battles, showcasing their strength, skill, and bravery.

During this period, buhurt served multiple purposes. It was a means for knights to train and hone their combat skills, allowing them to become more proficient in the art of war. Buhurt also provided a spectacle for audiences, often taking place at tournaments and other public events. These battles allowed knights to demonstrate their prowess and gain recognition for their valor and martial abilities.

The rules of buhurt varied across regions and time periods, but the core objective remained the same: defeat the opponent or force them to yield. Participants wore full armor, including a helmet, gauntlets, and body protection, to ensure their safety during combat. Weapons such as swords, maces, and polearms were used, and fighters often employed various techniques and strategies to gain an advantage.

While buhurt waned in popularity as the Middle Ages gave way to the Renaissance, the sport experienced a resurgence in recent decades due to the efforts of historical reenactment enthusiasts. These dedicated individuals sought to recreate the authentic experience of medieval combat, drawing upon historical sources, manuscripts, and artwork to develop accurate techniques and equipment.

Source

Children 4 years old and under are free but are not recommended for this event and must not occupy a seat. 

As a formally recognised sport, this competition is only open to members of Buhurt teams. For more details visit the Australian Medieval Combat Association

For the comfort and safety of visitors, performers, staff and volunteers, animals are not permitted to be brought into the Abbeystowe site, with the exception of service animals, such as certified assistance dogs and police dogs.

You will be required to show registration papers at entry for any assistance and certified dogs.

We are not permitting weapons of any sort to be brought to this event. The main reason being that this event is a spectator only event and guests will be seated in the grandstand for large portions of the day, in close proximity to other guests.

For the safety and comfort of all guests, we therefore have included in our restricted items for this event, any item that could be used as a weapon or replica weapon be left at home for this event.