FIERLJEPPEN IN FRIESLAND.
A TYPICAL FRISIAN SPORT
FIERLJEPPEN.
DISCOVER IT AT POLE JUMP DISTANCE
FROM HUNS.
Friesland has a unique sport that is deeply rooted in its history: fierljeppen. Which literally means "far jumping" in Frisian. This traditional Frisian sport, which originated in the agricultural communities of the region, has grown into a beloved spectacle that attracts both locals and visitors from abroad. And our holiday home in Friesland is located in the middle of the watery landscape that is ideal for fierljeppen.
IN BRIEF
Pole vaulting used to be a practical way for farmers and cattle breeders to cross waterways and ditches. What once started as a necessary skill quickly became a popular sport. The goal was to jump over a ditch with a pole and cover as much distance as possible. It did not take long before competitions were organized and techniques were developed to jump further and further.
In 1767 the very first competitions were held. And nowadays fierljeppen is one of the most recognizable and beloved sports of Friesland. The Frisian championship attracts thousands of spectators every year.
THE RULES OF THE GAME
The basics of the sport are simple: using a long, flexible pole, jump over a moat to the other side. The length of the jump is measured from the take-off point to the other side of the moat. The competitor who makes the longest jump wins the competition.
There are strict rules regarding the technique of the jump and the use of the pole. This makes fierljeppen a challenging and spectacular sport to watch and practice. Fierljeppen is all about strength, agility and timing. With an impressive jump that starts with a short, fierce sprint to the pole.
THE FIERLJEPPOLDER
28 minutes from Húns
One of the most iconic places to learn more about the history and culture of fierljeppen is the Fierljeppolder, near Leeuwarden. Here you will not only find a nice museum dedicated to the sport, but also a specially designed fierljep terrain. Here you can experience the thrill of jumping yourself.
The museum offers insight into the evolution of fierljeppen, the techniques used and the heroes who have shaped the sport into what it is today. For adventurous souls it is also possible to take the plunge under the guidance of experienced instructors and experience why fierljeppen is such a beloved heritage in Friesland.
https://www.fierljeppolder.com/
06 81082667
Doctor Ypeylaan 10 in Noardburgum
HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT
The Eighty Years' War
During the Eighty Years' War (1568-1648), the Netherlands fought against Spain. Both parties built defensive lines. These were often located along rivers and canals. These lines were known as the Spanish lines. In the Netherlands, and especially in Friesland, there were many waterways, marshes and ditches. These formed both natural and artificial obstacles.
The first pole vaulters
Fierljeppen started out of a practical necessity. Farmers and residents of Friesland often had to jump over wide ditches to reach their land. For along the lines it was important to jump quickly over ditches and rivers. The war probably had a great influence on fierljeppen. The techniques were refined. And after the war fierljeppen became a popular sport.
From wood to aluminum to carbon
The first fierljeppers used wooden poles. Later, the switch was made to aluminum ones. Nowadays, longer and stronger carbon poles are used. This allows jumpers to bridge greater distances.
Further development
The jumps on which they jump have also undergone an evolution. Longer jumps were made, a well-adapted landing place was created. These changes stimulated the development of the sport even further.
However, climbing the pole remains a crucial part. Mastering the jump is also essential for success.
COMPETITIONS AND CHAMPIONSHIPS
Frisian Championship
Since 1957, the Frisian Championship (FK) Fierljeppen has been held in Winsum (near Húns). People eagerly await this throughout the entire fierljep season. It is the most important Frisian fierljep competition. lakbij Húns. The Frisian Championship attracts the best fierljeppers from the entire region, who compete for the prestigious title of Frisian Champion. Hundreds of excited spectators gather along the banks of the water to encourage and admire the athletes.
Who will become Dutch champion?
The Frisian Bird Protection Society decided to organize competitions for pole vaulting. That is why they founded the Frysk Ljeppers Boun in 1960. The competitions start in May and end in September with the Dutch Championship. Records are broken every year. For example, the men in the top class regularly jump further than 20 meters. For the youth, two youth jumps have been constructed at each association. They also have their own competition.
Other unions and organisations
The Polsstokbond Holland and the Nederlandse Fierljepbond also organise many competitions and tournaments. Even in Utrecht there are competitions. The big championships always attract a lot of spectators. People enjoy the spectacular jumps and the intense competition.
TECHNIQUE AND MATERIAL
In fierljeppen, technique and material go hand in hand. It's all about the right combination. Over time, poles have gone from wood to aluminum. Finally, carbon is now used. This makes for longer poles and higher jumps.
The jump also plays a major role. It must be sturdy and well-designed. This gives the jumper enough momentum to jump far. The landing site is also adapted for safety. There is a thick layer of sand and well-adapted fields that absorb the impact of the jumper.
ORGANIZATION AND PUBLICITY
For the preservation and growth of fierljeppen, organization and publicity are very important. The associations in Friesland play a major role in this. Such as the well-known association in It Heidenskip that organizes many competitions and demonstrations. During these events, the public can admire the skills of the jumpers up close.
The events of It Heidenskip attract both local spectators and curious tourists. Promotion of the sport remains important. Because by making fierljeppen known outside of Friesland, the sport continues to grow.
In 1767 the very first competitions were held. And nowadays fierljeppen is one of the most recognizable and beloved sports of Friesland. The Frisian championship attracts thousands of spectators every year.
