The Wrestling programme at Ambleside Sports has always been one of the main attractions – way back in 1809 a Silver Wrestling Belt and 5 guineas were offered in prizes. The “back hold” is crucial to this style of wrestling. Competitors stand face to face and link their hands behind the opponents back and when the referee is satisfied that each competitor has an equal hold he warns them to be “on guard”. The bout begins with the command “wrestle” a tussle follows where the winner either breaks his opponent’s hold or lands him on the ground to gain a “fall” – bouts are the best of three falls.
Enthusiasm for Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling is kept alive by dedicated families involved in the Sport who pass the techniques and skills from generation to generation and through Wrestling Academies. Three family names – Harrington, Brocklebank and Mason – have been closely involved with wrestling at Ambleside throughout the last 50 years. These names dominate the records and we also find them deeply embroiled in the judging, administration and management of the Sport.
A comprehensive programme of events will take place in the wrestling arena. This will start as soon as the Official Opening Ceremony finishes (approx. time 12.15) – the competition then runs non-stop throughout the afternoon. The order of these events is as follows (more details are given in the programme):
Finals of local junior schools event.
Costume Events:
Senior
Junior
Boys & Girls Competition:
Boys and Girls under 12
Boys:
8 stone
Boys under 15
Boys under 18
Senior Girls & Ladies:
Girls Under 15
Ladies 10 1/2
Ladies All Weights
Men:
11 1/2 stone
12 1/2 stone
14 stone
Men all weights
Competitors taking part in Championship Events must wear traditional costume.
One final award, The Guinness Trophy, is also given for outstanding performance on the day.
For more information, details on entering and comprehensive results, please go to the Cumberland & Westmorland Wrestling Association
Entries as per regulations governing the Sport.
Note for all would-be competitors: You must pay for entry to the sports. After registering (at the wrestling arena), you will be given a ticket to take to the Treasurer’s tent for reimbursement of your entry fee.
Visitors with no experience are not excluded; both juniors and seniors can register on the day. Just get there a little earlier and find the wrestling arena, you can then receive some basic tuition (not for the faint-hearted!).
