No slack in the rope as Kimberley hosts Oceanic tug of war Championships

The city of Kimberley buzzed with energy last week as the 11th Oceanic Tug of War Championships got under way at the Pirates Club, drawing hundreds of athletes and spectators to the prestigious event.

The 2025 championship marked a historic moment for the Northern Cape, playing host to one of the most significant tug of war competitions on the international calendar. The Pirates Club's fields were transformed into an arena of strength, strategy, and unity, as competitors from across South Africa and beyond battled it out for top honours.

Teams from all nine South African provinces – North West, Free State, Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Northern Cape, and Western Cape – took part in the intense contest of strength and endurance. The competition also extended beyond South Africa’s borders, with neighbouring countries Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ghana, Lesotho, Botswana, and Zambia all fielding teams. Then, adding a truly international flair, Ireland made their mark competing on African soil in pursuit of gold.

A Rich History of Tug of War in the Oceanic Championships

The Oceanic Tug of War Championships was first established in the early 2000s with the vision of promoting the sport across the Southern Hemisphere and the broader African region. 

Since its inception, the tournament has grown significantly in both participation and stature. While it was originally dominated by Oceania countries such as Australia and New Zealand, the championship has increasingly embraced African nations, offering a platform for development and showcasing raw talent from across the continent.

Over the years, the event has evolved to include multiple weight divisions, youth categories, and women’s competitions – helping to create a more inclusive environment for athletes. It continues to play a vital role in nurturing talent, strengthening cross-border ties, and promoting greater participation in this ancient and respected sport.

Diamond City Takes Centre Stage

Hosting the championship was a major milestone for the city of Kimberley. The Pirates Club, known for its community spirit and well-kept facilities, proved to be the ideal venue for such a high-stakes competition. Over the course of the event, the echo of cheering crowds and the grunts of determined athletes filled the air, setting the scene for a weekend of unforgettable performances.

Spectators were treated to displays of discipline, teamwork, and raw power as athletes dug their heels into the turf. Tug of war proved to be much more than a battle of brute strength – it was a test of rhythm, coordination, and endurance. With so many elite teams present, the contests were tightly fought and rich in drama.

As the championships concluded, Kimberley stood proudly as a beacon of African sport – a stage for unity, resilience, and the enduring appeal of one of the world’s oldest team competitions.