What is the official state sport of Maryland?

Question

Here is the question : WHAT IS THE OFFICIAL STATE SPORT OF MARYLAND?

Option

Here is the option for the question :

  • Basketball
  • Water Polo
  • Jousting
  • Bowling

The Answer:

And, the answer for the the question is :

Jousting

Explanation:

When you think of Maryland sports you might think of Big Ten football or the Baltimore Orioles. But when Maryland became the first state to officially recognize a sport in 1962, they went with jousting. It’s jousting, that’s correct. Don’t worry, Marylanders aren’t kicking people off horses in the afternoons. Contestants have 8 seconds to sprint down an 80-yard course while “spearing” the rings with a long, fine-tipped lance in “ring type” competitions.

What is the official state sport of Maryland?
The official state sport of Maryland is jousting. Jousting became Maryland’s state sport in 1998 after passing legislation in the state assembly. It joins 26 other U.S. states that have designated an official state sport, pastime, activity or game.

Jousting originated in medieval Europe as a sport in which two horsemen charged at each other with lances to strike and unseat their opponent. It first appeared in Maryland in 1974 with the formation of the Knights of Valor, the oldest active jousting organization in the U.S. They helped popularize jousting as a sport and tourist attraction, paving the way for its recognition as the state sport.

Maryland was chosen for jousting in particular due to its historical links with chivalry and knighthood. In medieval times, it was the site of grand tournaments and competitions where nobles would demonstrate their prowess and valor. Today, several jousting competitions and events still take place at historic locations across Maryland each year. The state also features museums dedicated to armor, castles, and chivalric traditions.

Making jousting the official state sport was proposed as a way to honor this history and heritage. It highlights Maryland’s past glory and prestige while also promoting jousting as a unique American sport. Supporters argued it would boost interest in medieval history, boost tourism revenues, and give Maryland a defining characteristic only found in a few other states. However, critics saw it as an anachronistic choice out of step with modern interests.

Jousting competitions in Maryland follow the Code of Chivalry with honor, courage, and fair play. Jousters charge at each other on horseback, striking with blunted lances at a shield target. Points are scored for accuracy and technique. Armor and equipment must meet safety standards while maintaining historical authenticity.

While jousting is Maryland’s state sport, it remains a niche activity and spectacle. Its status is mostly symbolic, representing history and tradition over widespread participation. Most residents do not actively joust or closely follow competitions. However, its quirky designation as an official sport has brought some attention and tourism dollars to the state over the years.

Maryland’s choice of jousting as its state sport is unique in highlighting medieval pageantry over modern athleticism. It shows a whimsical and somewhat anachronistic side, embracing history for history’s sake above all else. The sport also exemplifies the ideals of chivalry in its code and conduct.

jousting as Maryland’s state sport remains a somewhat absurd and ironic designation, yet one that champions history, heritage and the fantastical anachronism of knightly competition. Its place in law highlights the state’s quirkiness and charm as much as any real passion for the sport itself. Jousting in Maryland is triumph of spectacle, nostalgia and mythology over logic or mainstream popularity. But that is part of i