S'Istrumpa, a fight with loyal gherradores

"S’Istrumpa" is a typical Sardinian discipline, similar to the free fight and disciplined by a sport Federation recognized from C.O.N.I. (Italian National Olympic Committee), which organizes a national championship (in Ollolai, the town that has dedicated to this sport the sculpture on the photo ) and demonstration. Athletes (the “gherradores) come from other Countries, for example from Scotland and Ireland, where the Celtic fights are practiced.

Centuries ago S'Istrumpa was practiced by the shepherds of Barbagie. In the past, even the famous Franco Columbu (who has won Mister Universe and Mister Olympia competitions, a Sardinian emigrated years ago to the U.S.A., where he works as V.I.P. personal trainer) has been one of the strongest “gherradores” of this discipline. Despite what it could be thought, S’Istrumpa teaches to respect rules and enemies, and it is based on personal agility (rather than muscular strength) and on the weaknesses of the opposing “gherradore”.