Ready for battle of the brave

Kryall castle at Leigh creek is holding a Jousting tournament next week here Phil Leitch in full armour is with Valiant his horse getting ready for the tournament

Australia’s champion jousters will don their armour in a trans-Tasman battle this weekend.

The home team will face off against New Zealand’s finest in the inaugural jousting competition on March 17 and 18 at Kryal Castle in Leigh Creek.

Last year’s individual champion, Phillip Leitch, is invited to marshal (umpire) the event and ensure a fair and honourable competition.

“Kryal Castle presents the perfect home team venue for the Australian team,” Leitch said. “The Castle has featured jousting as part of our entertainment since the drawbridge was first raised in 1974.

“The rival teams both boast world class exponents of this dangerous medieval sport.”

Veteran jouster Luke Binks of Queensland will captain the Australian team. He’ll be joined by Andrew McKinnon from New South Wales and Victorian Katherine McWade.

The New Zealand team will be led by veteran Callum Forbes, with teammates Emily Perrin and rookie, Simon Neilsen.

Kryal Castle’s Clifford Formosa will be the Knight of Honor and will step in to joust in a knights place should they have to retire from the field. Tickets: 5334 8555 or suites@kryalcastle.com.au.