Svaika (Russian: Свайка, IPA: [ˈsvajkə], lit. 'marlinspike') is a throwing game that was a favorite of Russian lower-class men up to the 20th century. It is a game in which a marlinspike-like spear is thrown to land in the middle of a metal ring lying on the ground some distance away.[1] A tool for the game can weigh up to five pounds.
By one account of events, Tsarevich Dmitry died from a stab wound while he was playing this game, although this is disputed.[2]
References
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- ^ Riordan, James Sport in Soviet Society: Development of Sport and Physical Education in Russia and the USSR. Cambridge: Cambtidge University Press, 1977. Page 30
- ^ Скрынников, Р.Г. Самозванцы в России в начале XVII века. Григорий Отрепьев. - С. 14
| External videos | |
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 Svaika game | |
| Making a spear for the game |