Axe throwing has surged in popularity as a recreational and competitive activity, and yes, there indeed are world championships dedicated to this unique sport. The sport, which essentially involves throwing an axe at a target, trying to hit the bullseye, has developed its own organized competitions and leagues around the globe.
The World Axe Throwing League (WATL) is one of the foremost organizations that have taken on the mantle of promoting the sport on a global scale. The WATL was established with the vision of creating a standardized rule system that various axe throwing bodies could adhere to, ensuring consistency and fairness in competitions. They oversee international competitions and crown world champions in various axe throwing disciplines.
The leagues and championships organized by WATL offer a variety of events, from standard target throwing to more specialized competitions like ‘Big Axe’, a discipline that involves a larger axe, and ‘Duals’, where teams of two compete together. The World Axe Throwing Championship is a major event where throwers from many different countries compete for the title of world champion. It usually features a range of individual and team events and follows strict rules similar to other target sports—for example, awarding points based on the area of the target hit by the axe.
Competitors in these events come from all walks of life, some are hobbyists while others train rigorously year-round, turning professional. The championships typically follow a tournament format, with axe throwers competing in knock-out rounds until a champion is crowned.
In addition to the WATL, there is also the International Axe Throwing Federation (IATF) which has been another driving force in standardizing the sport and organizing international competitions. The IATF champions another prominent annual event called the International Axe Throwing Championship (IATC), known for drawing the best axe throwers globally.
The growth of the sport has been facilitated by the proliferation of axe throwing venues in urban settings, which double as entertainment venues and practice grounds for competitors. These venues often offer leagues to join, which are stepping stones for those looking to compete at the regional, national, or international levels.
Axe throwing’s simplicity makes it accessible, while the skill and focus required endear it to a wide audience as both a pastime and a competitive endeavor. The establishment of formal world championships like those organized by WATL and IATF ensures that the competitive aspect of the sport is recognized and that there is a worldwide community for axe throwers.
When it comes to safety, both the federation and the league have thorough guidelines and safety practices that participants must follow. This includes proper handling and throwing techniques, controlled environments with designated throwing lanes, and supervision to mitigate the dangers involved with handling axes.
As with any emerging sport, there are obstacles and growing pains. The standardization of rules, equipment, and safety measures are constantly evolving with the growth of the sport. Both organizations are continuously working to not only expand the sport’s reach but to solidify its reputation as a legitimate competitive activity. With a growing fan base and an increasing number of participants at its world championships, axe throwing is carving out its niche in the sporting world.