TOURNOI DE JOUTES LANGUEDOCIENNES

Languedocian jousting have their roots in Frontignan. Their presence is attested as early as 1627 on Etang d’Ingril. This traditional sport has remained intact, it is practiced in eight cities of Hérault and in a city of Gard. Two heavy rowboats, one is called «la rouge», the other «la bleue», are propelled by eight to ten rowers and guided by two helmsmen, the «boss helmsmen». Competitors called "jousters" are positioned on a platform that is nearly three meters from the water, at the end of each boat. This platform bears the name of tintaine. Jousters of the next jousting stand on the lower part of the tintaine. So the two boats face each other, propelling towards each other, until the final impact. During the assault, the two boats come close to each other from the right to allow the jousters to "pass". With their spear and shield, the goal of the jouster is to bring down his opponent into the water. The winner is the one who stays on the tintaine after the pass. A beautiful show to discover with traditional music.