As a testament to the growing popularity of a sport once thought of as a Canadian fad, Philadelphia recently hosted its second-ever regional tournament for the National Axe Throwing Federation, writes Kate Knibbs for The Ringer.
The regional event for the Eastern section of NATF took place at Urban Axes, with axe-throwers coming from everywhere from Ottawa to Baltimore.
The winner of the Philadelphia competition was a thrower with incredible aim. Stefan Cavacciuti secured a spot at the Wilson Cup international championship in Toronto that will take place in early 2019. He was also presented with a giant novelty check with his name on it.
The Eastern regional champion will then be joined by victors from seven other regions and several other league and wild-card qualifiers for the sport’s biggest competition.
According to many who attended the event, the growing popularity of axe-throwing can partly be attributed to the overall friendliness of the sport.
“What’s unique about the culture is that you can play against somebody and have you’re a– absolutely handed to you,” said Shooter Coutts of Backyard Axe Throwing League, “and still have a beer afterward.”
Read more about the sport from The Ringer by clicking here.
