Discover the thrilling and lesser-known Swiss fusion of golf and baseball
The Thrilling and Dangerous Sport of Hornussen
When you think of Swiss sports, the first image that comes to mind might be Roger Federer enjoying some cheese in the picturesque region of Emmental. But hidden within this idyllic countryside lies a centuries-old traditional game that will leave you in awe – Hornussen.
Hornussen is a unique sport, often described as a fascinating blend of baseball and golf. Played by two teams consisting of 18 players each, it involves launching projectiles known as “Nouss” or “Hornuss” through the air at speeds reaching an astonishing 200 miles per hour!
Equipped with carbon sticks called “Träfs,” hitters stand on elevated batting ramps facing a playing area called the “Ries.” This field stretches an impressive 300 meters long and 10 meters wide. The challenge for hitters is to strike the puck from these sloped platforms, also known as “Bocks,” and send it soaring downfield.
In Hornussen, scoring begins when the puck reaches the 100-meter line. Players earn additional points for each extra 10 meters achieved beyond this marker. However, scoring only counts if the Nouss successfully lands without being intercepted by fielders wielding bats known as “Schindels.”
This sport’s format has drawn interesting comparisons to golf; some even speculate that Hornussen may have influenced modern-day golf itself. Michael Kummer, member of national championship-winning team Hochstetten Hornussen explains: “The similarity lies in hitting an object far away like a ball but here our aim is to score goals rather than make holes.”
Unlike golf, where the main danger lies in wayward shots, Hornussen introduces an element of peril that is essential to the game. Imagine facing plastic pucks hurtling towards you at speeds comparable to an F1 car! Stopping these projectiles proves as treacherous as it is challenging. Though some players opt for helmets and protective gear, others venture onto the field without any such protection.
Kummer elaborates on the dangers involved: “If you fail to see the Nouss or if one changes direction just two meters before your face after hitting a bat, it can be really hazardous. A direct hit near the eyes or head poses a significant risk.”
Hornussen originated in Switzerland’s Emmental valley during the mid-17th century and has remained predominantly within its borders ever since. Despite brief attempts to introduce it in Germany, this captivating sport has found its home only in rural areas like Bern.
The requirement for vast grassy expanses suitable for gameplay serves as one reason why Hornussen has stayed confined to Emmental. Other ventures into Germany failed due to difficulties finding enough players willing to participate.
“With yodeling and schwingen (a form of wrestling), Hornussen represents one of Switzerland’s three cultural sports that we truly cherish,” says Kummer.
A Thriving Sport with National Championships
In Switzerland alone, there are about 260 active teams participating across multiple leagues forming a pyramid system. These teams fiercely compete for glory in pursuit of winning top honors – The Swiss Championship!
Among these talented contenders stands Hochstetten Hornussen –the undisputed champions who have clinched the title for five consecutive years. They are hailed as the “Bayern Munich of Hornussen” – a testament to their dominance in this exhilarating sport.