kiekkot

Kiekkot is a traditional Finnish and Estonian sport that involves using a bow and arrow to shoot a wooden cylinder on a stick. The objective of the game is to knock the cylinder off the stick using the arrow. The sport is typically played outdoors and requires a level of precision and skill.

The origins of kiekkot are unclear, but it is believed to have roots in medieval hunting practices. The sport gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in rural areas of Finland and Estonia, where it was often played as a form of recreation and sport.

Kiekkot is played with a special type of bow and arrow, designed specifically for the game. The bow is typically made of wood and features a distinctive shape, with a longer length than a standard archery bow. The arrows used in kiekkot are also designed for the game and typically have a notched tip that allows them to easily fit onto the target cylinder.

The target in kiekkot is a cylinder on a stick, typically made of wood. The cylinder is placed on the end of a long stick, which is elevated off the ground. Players take turns shooting at the cylinder, with the goal of knocking it off the stick. Points are awarded based on the difficulty of the shot, with harder shots worth more points.

Kiekkot has a strong following in both Finland and Estonia, and is often played at festivals and other outdoor events. While it is not as widely practiced as some other traditional sports, kiekkot remains an important part of the cultural heritage of the region, and is still enjoyed by people today.