Fierljeppen - Canal vaulting in Holland

What is FIERLJEPPEN?

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2012Dec 19

Subscribe for the latest news from SNTV: http://bit.ly/X6816L A look at the unusual and 'uplifting' Dutch traditional sport of "Fierljeppen." These picturesque Dutch canals are perfect for a cow to graze peacefully by, or for tourists to cycle along on the way to a quaint pub. They're also pretty essential when it comes to the sport of canal vaulting. 'Fierljeppen' as it's known in the Netherlands dates back hundreds of years, at first simply as a way to navigate the water-filled land. Now there's a non-profit organisation that hosts 22 rounds of Fierljeppen competitions. Jaarsveld, on the banks of the River Lek, plays host to just one of the events on the calendar. During the event, each competitor is allowed two minutes to prepare for his or her jump. Each entrant has at least three attempts during the event. The top three distances in each category determine who'll compete in the final - during which Senior Men, Ladies, Junior, and Youth titles are contested. Theo van Kooten took the honours in the men's competition, and he says the sport is like a drug. Theo van Kooten, Winner: "I think about Fierljeppen every day. After today's competition, I'll soon start to prepare myself for next week's. Once you get involved in the sport, your whole life is taken over by it. More than any other sport I play - like football or badminton." So there you have it. Next time it pours down with rain, leave your wellies at home, grab a giant pole, and get vaulting! Breaking sports news: / sntv Follow SNTV on Twitter: / sntv SNTV: http://www.sntv.com