Maryland's State Sport

Jousting, the centuries old equestrian sport originated in the Middle Ages in the era of knighthood. It is Maryland's State Sport, designated by the General Assembly in 1962. Maryland was the first state to designate an official state sport. Jousting tournaments have been held in Maryland since early colonial times but became increasingly popular after the Civil War. Retaining the pageantry and customs of medieval tournaments, modern competitors are called "knights" or "maids", and many dress in colorful costumes. Men, women and children compete equally with skill and horsemanship determining the class.

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