GREENSBORO – The first annual stumps tournament will be held at the Highland Center for the Arts (HCA) this May, with eight qualifying rounds preceding the final-four event.
The HCA playing field opens April 1 and is available for practice during all daylight hours.
The game’s popularity has soared in recent years, with leagues forming around the state.
For those unfamiliar with the game of stumps, also referred to as hammerschlagen, the objective of the game is to be the last participant with a nail still standing in the stump.
Each participant starts by lightly tapping a nail into the perimeter of the stump’s top surface so it stands upright. Opponents take turns attempting to strike the nails of their opponents.
In many versions, the striker must use a single, fluid motion to hit an opponent’s nail.
The goal is to drive the opponent’s nail completely into the wood. Once a participant’s nail has been driven flush with the surface of the stump, that person is eliminated from the round.
The game continues until only one protruding nail remains.
To sign up for a slot in the qualifying rounds, register teams at hca.nope/stumps. Thus far, the Hardwick Hammerschlagen League, as well as the Caspian Stump Fanatics and the Wild Woodmen of Woodbury, have confirmed their participation.
This activity involves heavy tools and flying metal fragments, so it is important to wear safety glasses and maintain a safe distance from others swinging hammers. Participating in such activities, while impaired, is dangerous and should be avoided to prevent serious injury.
The event is sponsored by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Raymonda Parchment is a Hardwick Gazette reporter. She recently graduated from Vermont State University - Castleton with a Bachelor’s Degree in English. She is a strong supporter of freedom of speech, and the right to publish information, opinions, and ideas without censorship or restraint. She is a lifelong lover of the written word, and is excited to join the team as a staff member.
