Tug of War was an Olympic team event featured from the 1900 to 1920 Summer Games. Initially, teams, known as clubs, represented countries, and a single country could enter multiple teams, allowing for the possibility of winning multiple medals. This occurred in 1904, when the United States secured all three medals, and again in 1908, when three British teams occupied the podium. Sweden also earned two medals, including one as part of a mixed team. Although tug of war was considered part of the athletics program at the time, it has since been categorised separately. The sport was removed after the 1920 Games as the International Olympic Committee streamlined the programme to better manage the number of sports and participants.
4. Live pigeon shooting
Live pigeon shooting was a one-time Olympic event held at the 1900 Paris Games. Competitors aimed to shoot as many live pigeons as possible, with the birds being released in front of them. The sport was met with immediate controversy due to its brutality, as it resulted in the death of hundreds of pigeons. The backlash from animal rights advocates and the public led to its swift removal from the Olympic programme. The last and only winner was Belgian shooter Léon de Lunden, who killed 21 birds. The event’s cruelty ensured it was never repeated, replaced by more humane shooting sports.
5. Pistol duelling
Pistol duelling was an event at the 1906 Intercalated Games and the 1908 London Olympics, where competitors shot at mannequins dressed in frock coats, aiming at painted targets on the chest. Unlike traditional duelling, the event was designed to test precision, rather than engage in actual combat. It was discontinued due to its perceived promotion of violence and the lack of true athletic challenge. The last Olympic winner was Léon Moreaux of France in 1908. As the Olympics evolved, the sport was deemed inappropriate and was removed, making way for more traditional shooting events.
6. Walking
Race walking isn’t your typical Sunday stroll. These athletes are defying gravity (or at least the rulebook) with every step. Imagine walking as fast as you can without breaking into a run – it’s a delicate art. The 20km race is the classic distance, but the new kid on the block is the mixed relay. Ecuador and China topped the podium this year in the individual events, while Spain made history with the first-ever mixed relay gold. So next time you’re tempted to power walk, remember these Olympic-level walkers and their unwavering dedication to the art of the awkward stride.
7. 3,000m steeplechase
Imagine sprinting, hurdling, and swimming all at once – that’s the steeplechase. This Olympic spectacle combines endurance, agility, and a dash of recklessness. Athletes tackle 28 hurdles and seven water jumps, all while trying to outrun their competitors. Since its debut in 1920, it’s been a gruelling test of human limits. Women finally got their chance to shine in 2008. Bahrain’s Winfred Mutile Yavi made a splash in Paris 2024 winning gold, while Morocco’s Soufiane El Bakkali proved he’s the king of the castle, reigning supreme in both Tokyo and Paris.
