One of the better known sports of the Renaissance period was the Tournament of the Horse which often included jousting. Most of the Faires have incorporated these action packed events into their entertainment. You may see dashing Knights clash at full gallop vying for royal favor. Spectators are urged by the Knight’s squires and medieval criers to support their champion.

Although the origins are unsure, formalized jousting rose to the height of it’s popularity in Europe during the 1400’s. An off shoot of the war games ("Melees") staged by Knights on horseback and foot soldiers in open fields, jousting was conducted in colorfully decorated area designated by the nobles for spectator viewing.

Initially these "jousts" served as a way for Knights to hone their fighting skills during times of peace, but quickly became a money making venture as the winning team could hold the losers for ranson accepting their horses and armor as payment.

The numerous deaths spawned by these events led Popes and English Kings to ban jousting. Such bans did little to curtail the events which became a crowd pleasing attraction at market faires and social gatherings.

Other events that confirmed the Knight’s teamwork with his horse was "Ring spearing". Here, the Knight must gallop through a designated area while spearing strategically placed rings. The Knight collecting the most rings won the event.

Other events included in the Tournament of the Horse were designed to demonstrate the precise teamwork of the Knight and his war horse. A highly skilled Knight could maneuver his well trained horse through intricate courses without using the reins or any other visible signs of control. The Olympic sport of Dressage was born of necessity in the battlefield.

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