Tug of War Was Once an Olympic Sport

Tug of war was an official medal event at the Summer Olympics for twenty years. Countries were allowed to enter multiple teams, leading to scenarios where one nation swept all three podium spots.

Between 1900 and 1920, the sport was a staple of the Games, often featuring club-based teams rather than national squads. Because of the rules, the United States dominated by taking every medal in 1904, while British teams did the same in 1908. It remains one of the most unusual sports to ever be cut from the official Olympic program. Today, tug of war is still recognized by the International Olympic Committee but has not returned to the main stage.