The thunder of hooves, the clash of steel and the roar of the crowd are set to return to Leeds this Easter bank holiday, as the Royal Armouries Museum hosts its spectacular International Jousting Tournament for the 25th year. From Friday 18th to Monday 21st April, visitors can witness a thrilling celebration of medieval sport as six elite jousters from the UK, Germany and the USA battle it out for international glory.
Held in the museum’s purpose-built jousting arena, the four-day event promises a high-octane display of extreme equestrianism. Crowds will see riders charging at each other on horseback at speeds of up to 30mph, armed with 10-foot wooden lances and centuries of tradition. The stakes are high and the action is very real — no trickery, just pure skill, courage and power.
Representing the UK are returning champions Emma Pearn and Mike Collin, who stormed to victory at the museum’s last joust in August 2024. With the home crowd behind them, they’ll be looking to defend their title and prove their dominance on the international stage once again.
“We’re thrilled to be back,” said Pearn. “Competing here, in front of such a passionate audience, is always special — and to do it in the 25th year of the tournament makes it even more meaningful.”
But victory won’t come easy. Facing them are seasoned German knights Bernd Joachim Voigt and Stephan Weiss, bringing years of experience and a reputation for precision. They’ll be joined by fierce American challengers Vince Todd and Kyle Van Dolah-Evans, who are set on taking the trophy across the Atlantic.
“We know we’ve got tough competition,” said Van Dolah-Evans. “But we’re ready. This tournament has a history of incredible jousting, and we’re here to make our mark.”
The event holds a special place in the museum’s calendar, and in the hearts of fans around the world. What began in 2000 as the museum’s first invitational tournament has grown into a globally recognised championship, attracting top talent and enthusiastic crowds year after year. Gordon Summers, who rode in that very first event a quarter of a century ago, now returns as the tournament’s Knight Marshall, overseeing proceedings with the authority of someone who’s been in the saddle themselves.
“To see how the tournament has grown over the last 25 years is remarkable,” said Summers. “It’s more than just a sport — it’s history brought to life.”
This year’s event is particularly significant, as it will be the only jousting tournament hosted by the Royal Armouries Museum in 2025. With a major new exhibition opening this summer, this Easter will be the only chance for fans to experience the drama and spectacle of live jousting in Leeds this year.
Suitable for all ages, the tournament is a great day out for families, history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Tickets range from £5 to £20, with free tickets available for carers, making it an accessible and unforgettable experience for everyone.
So whether you’re cheering for your home team, curious about the sport, or simply looking for something exciting to do over the long weekend, the Royal Armouries Museum is the place to be this Easter.
