In pursuit of honour, nobility runs the gauntlet of the duel.
Medieval culture will grace a fitting venue when the JuggerKnights display their swords and shields. As a fundraiser for the medieval combat club, Greensleeves Medieval Kingdom will become a steel and chain armoured battlefield as Alteregos presents A Hard Day’s Knight on October 8.
Those familiar with the Medieval Fayre will know well the combatants that transport revellers to a land far yonder with the authenticity and spectacle of the era.
These gladiators of the medieval realm partake in two forms of competition – individual duels of three 90-second rounds, as well as Buhurt group battles that can feature up to 21 fighters in last-man-standing combat. In both, they use blunted steel weapons like swords, axes and maces, among others.
The competition JuggerKnights are raising funds for is the International Medieval Combat Federation (IMCF) World Championships to be held in Spain in 2023. South Africa has sent teams on four previous occasions and can boast wins in the Buhurt competition against Ireland and Scotland at the 2018 edition.
“We also had duels fighters, where our club founder Hylton Kleynhans placed fourth in the worldwide rankings in the nomination of sword and shield after a close fight with Austria,” said JuggerKnights’ Karl Smit, who himself competed in Scotland in 2018.
The allure of the sport is part physicality, part desire to relive the glory days of an iconic era. “For me it started with a love of history and the medieval fantasy genre of books and movies. It is a unique sport that also puts us in touch with the past. Few other sports can claim the same,” stated Smit, adding that some teammates have experience in reenactments, stage fighting and other combat sports.
“We are extremely proud of our boys in steel. They have been at every one of our Medieval Fayres for the last decade and we would love to see them growing their sport; and see them back on the International stage again. They are dedicated and talented; and we are privileged to be able to assist them with this fundraiser,” said Alterego’s Meryl Rosenberg.
A Hard Day’s Knight will mirror the enormously popular Medieval Fayre that was held in June with the same offering of food, drink, markets stalls and activities.
“This is a perfect opportunity for people to come taste the amazing medieval atmosphere that they missed,” encouraged Smit.
Journey to Greensleeves Medieval Kingdom and test whether ye be peasant or royalty.
