Upon entering the Cavendish Farms Centre in Lethbridge, it felt like being transported back to 1300s Europe.
The recent Coulee Clash event, hosted by the Company of the Black Spears, drew fighters from all over Alberta to Lethbridge for a tournament that would have impressed even Robert the Bruce.
“We have approximately 40 men clad in full plate armor engaging in combat with arming swords, longswords, great swords, poleaxes, axes, maces — a variety of weapons on display,” mentioned Brian Boisson, leader of the Company of the Black Spears.
Although it may resemble cosplay or live-action roleplay (LARP) at first glance, this tournament is actually a genuine sport known as buhurt, involving full-contact combat.
“The aim is to accumulate points, much like the historical strategy tests conducted through tournaments instead of actual warfare. This is what we are replicating,” explained Ryan Neilson, head of the Arverni Legion.
Competitors dedicate themselves daily to achieving glory in the arena.
“As kids, we all pretended to be knights with sticks or whatever we could find. Now, having the opportunity to actually engage in combat and test skills against global contenders? There’s no comparison,” stated Boisson.
Lethbridge will send four fighters to Texas this summer to represent Canada on the international stage with pride.
“I must admit, it’s quite daunting because we’ll be facing elite swordsmen and armored combatants from around the world,” shared Boisson.
Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that his team will do Canada proud.
“Especially in the current global climate, representing Canada holds significant importance for us. We’ll be there in our medieval tabards proudly displaying the maple leaf,” he added.
Scott Sheehan, another member of the Company of the Black Spears, will accompany Boisson on their journey to Texas.
“This is a somewhat obscure yet worldwide event. We’re converging in Texas due to the scorching heat elsewhere — it’s going to be intense,” Sheehan remarked.
He highlighted that while spectators see flashing steel at these events, the real battle takes place within the armor.
“It’s a sport that tests your endurance when you’re weary. It simulates fatigue and challenges your ability to perform in that state,”
Sheehan noted that the armor worn is far heavier than modern Kevlar vests.
“The gear is full weight. Helmets weigh 30 pounds, armor varies in weight, and the weapons are hefty,” Sheehan described.
“It’s not just about combat but also managing heat and endurance,”
Neilson explained that the heavy armor used in buhurt duels is historically accurate, reflecting what soldiers defending Stirling Castle or capturing fortresses would have worn.
“Our weapons are true to scale. We ensure the edges are blunt and the points are rounded to prevent actual stabbings during combat,”
While medieval knights were predominantly male, Saint Joan of Arc demonstrated that women were equally skilled. Kolby Verkirk, inspired by this, participated in Coulee Clash for the first time and found it exhilarating.
“It’s an incredible and thrilling experience. Once the adrenaline kicks in, it’s non-stop action. As a newcomer like me, the weight does become a challenge, but it’s truly thrilling,” Verkirk shared.
“I love being fully armored and knowing that I can engage in combat without causing harm,”
Her interest in buhurt stemmed from exposure to medieval-themed media.
“I started with video games, particularly For Honor, and my fascination with medieval history grew. Attending Comic Con, where they also had combat, further fueled my desire to participate. A few years later, when they sought more fighters, I eagerly signed up,”
She emphasized that being a woman in a male-dominated sport poses no issues.
“Although there are few females, it’s an inclusive environment for women. The male participants are very respectful and supportive,” Verkirk noted.
Ultimately, the spirit of enjoyment, competition, and camaraderie motivates many dedicated fans of buhurt.
“This has been the most enjoyable competitive sport experience for me. Putting on armor and wielding a longsword at someone is incomparable,” Boisson expressed.
“There’s nothing quite like it,”
Aside from Sheehan and Boisson, Graham Macbean and William Betcha will also represent Lethbridge and Canada in Texas this August. The team is seeking contributions through GoFundMe to offset expenses such as flights and accommodations.
