The Wife Carrying Race accours in Dorking, Surrey, every March, where couples compete along a 380-metre obstacle course. The sport dates back to the Viking invasion in 793 AD and was revived as a tradition in England in 2008 in a far cheerier manner.

During this race the ‘husband’ has to carry the ‘wife’ (weigh over 50kg) in recognised holds such as the piggy-back, fireman’s hold and popular Estonian Hold which requires the ‘wife’ to hang upside down on the carrier’s back. Whatever way, you’re in for a bumpy ride! The winning couple can look forward to a cash prize and a barrel of ale at the finish line!

Various theories are given  about how the tradition originated . Firstly , according to one popular legend,the Wife Carrying Race tradition originated dates back to the 19th century when a band of thieves would raid villages, stealing women and goods. To prove their strength, the thieves would carry the women in a race-like manner, often over difficult terrain.

Secondly, another theory suggests that it was inspired by an ancient tradition. Men would carry their wives as a demonstration of their strength, or even as a way to win their wives. Over time, the tradition evolved into a competitive sport.

Thirdly, is the story that Ronkainen trained his thieves by carrying big, heavy sacks on their backs, which could have eventually evolved to a sport.

The race was revived in 1992 in Finland as part of a festival and then spread to other countries, including England. The event has kept the fun and quirky spirit of the original tradition alive.

Reference from the web 

#VisitEngland #Languagecourse #Englishperte