Thongs, Pluggers, Flip Flops, Jandals, Plankies, Japanese Riding Boots or Chinese Safety Boots are all names for one of the worlds oldest forms of footwear. Worn with some minor variations across the ancient worlds of Egypt, Rome, Greece, sub-Saharan Africa, India, China, Korea, Japan and some Latin American cultures, the humble thong was designed to protect the wearers foot whilst keeping the top of the foot cool … and allowing it to burn in the summer sun. Not so cool in the centuries before SPF50+ sunscreen!
As Australian’s, of course, we found other unique uses for them, including harnessing the unique aerodynamic qualities nearest the pin throwing competition. A blend of lawn bowls, darts and bouche, Thong Throwing is as Australian on Australia Day as Two Up is to Anzac Day.
What is the best throwing style I hear you ask? Do you try for the ‘Maverick’, a flat spin style where the thong rotates through the air until the aerodynamic drag of the straps slows it down and causes it to drop like a stone like an F14 that’s flown through the jetwash and suffered a flame out? Is it the Lockett, where you line up the throw about 3′ left of the bucket and lob it with a strong backspin, drop punt style and then watch it move left to right inexorably towards the target as the friction caused by the straps cause it to gracefully curve through the air? Do you just try for the random lob and hope for the best?
What ever style you think is going to be serve you best, start practicing in time for the Sprite Club’s annual Thong Throwing Competition, held once again in the picturesque setting of the Chabrel’s front yard, overlooking the backstraight of Oakbank Racecourse!
Miles, I believe, is the current keeper of the John and Judy Bowering Memorial Trophy. At least I think he is!! I should know shouldn’t I!
Its a BYO lunch and drinks (and chairs if you have some fold outs that will fit into the Spridget!) and the Chabrels will supply dessert following the competition. Its a fabulous day to come and share a picnic lunch and meet friends new and old.
When: 26 Jan, from 1200
Where: Des and Penny Chabrel’s front yard, 2 Dorset Lane, Oakbank
Bring: Picnic Lunch and drinks, chairs if you have them
Please RSVP Des and Penny or myself so we know how many to cater dessert for.
Come along for a fun day out!