This is Fierljeppen, also known as Dutch Canal Vaulting

#1

This is Fierljeppen, also known as Dutch Canal Vaulting.

#2

We do not call it a Dutch sport. Fierljeppen is a Frisian (national) sport. In the other parts of the Netherlands it is not practised.

In Friesland there are a lot of lakes and small canals. So when a farmer had to cross his land he carried a pole with him to jump over. That is how the sport started.

While you are at it with the Frisians.
Also check out the sailing sport in Friesland.
Every summer the Frisian cities battle it out on the Frisian lakes with a sailing competition. Spectaculair site. Hard work. Not for the weak.

More info:

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#3

i forgot another big one. But we have not seen it since 1997. And i have only seen it happen 3 times in my life.
For this event all lakes in Friesland need to be frozen. And if the ice is strong enough then not only in Friesland but everybody in the Netherlands are going crazy.
It is a mayor skate event crossing all 11 Frisian cities.

More info:

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#4

Thank you for the education! Very impressive.

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#5

I’ve participated in much the same( excl polevaulting) while in Scandinavia, though not quite as bloodthirsty, and a bit more recreational. Lol.
@Ellie