Is Ancient Slinging the World's Next Big Sport?

For millennia, the simple sling, a strap used to hurl projectiles, stood as humanity's most effective long-range personal weapon. Its kinetic power was immense, and in experienced hands, the sling was often considered superior to the bow, surpassing both its accuracy and range. This powerful heritage endures today, thriving as a specialised international competitive sport, particularly on the Balearic Islands (Menorca, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera).

The islands' historical connection to the sling is so deep that their name is widely believed to be derived from the weapon. While a popular theory links it to the Greek word ballo ('to launch'), many scholars now suggest the name Balearic comes from the Punic (Carthaginian) language, meaning "the masters of throwing" or "those who throw stones." This perfectly encapsulates their ancient reputation.

The ancient Balearic Slingers were warriors famed for their mastery of the sling. These elite marksmen served as specialised light infantry auxiliaries and shock troops for ancient military powers. Military commander Hannibal, during the Second Punic War, attached great importance to his Balearic contingents, protecting them throughout the campaign as irreplaceable soldiers due to the weapon's superior range and precision compared to the bow. The Greek historian Diodorus Siculus (in the 1st century BC) attested to their rigorous training, noting parents would famously refuse to give their children bread until the child first hit it with the sling, a policy of no aim, no gains.

The Global Comeback

Today, the cultural tradition of slinging is promoted as an emerging international sport. This competitive revival, which includes local events known as Tir de Fona, is a key part of the effort to make Ibiza a diverse, year-round destination by highlighting its indigenous culture. The island of Ibiza recently hosted the 6th Slinging World Cup in October 2025. An annual competition and reunion for those who share this highly technical hobby.

Tråvvú TV's Quest for the Ultimate Slinger

The rise of this ancient sport and its cultural significance were captured in the Tråvvú TV production The Ultimate Slinger. A deep dive into the essential elements of competitive slinging, the history of the weapon (like the famous slings found in Pharaoh Tutankhamun's tomb), the variety of materials used (from natural stones, clay, to lead glandes), and the intense focus required to achieve accuracy and power.

Slinging World Cup Results 2025

The results of the 6th Slinging World Cup held in Ibiza over the weekend of October 31, 2025, confirmed the champions in both the men's and women's categories. This international competition saw representatives participating from thirty countries, including England, Holland, Peru, the USA, Japan, and Spain. The event consisted of a total of four competitions: two in the Tennis Ball modality, which took place in the Reina Sofia Park in Eivissa, and two in the Stone modality, which took place on Sunday in Es Cubells. Each participant launched four rounds of five throws.

In the Men's Category (Categoría Masculina):

The champion was the Minorcan, Raúl Lopera, who secured the victory with a score of 88 points. The second place was taken by the competitor from Málaga, Antonio Jiménez, who finished closely behind with 87 points. The third position on the podium was claimed by Antonio Catalino, who achieved 77 points.

In the Women's Category (Categoría Femenina):

The champion was Pili Aguilar, who won with a total of 92 points. In second place was María Caimaris, with 65 points. The third place was awarded to the Ibizan Catalina d'en March, who achieved the remarkable feat of reaching the podium at the age of 95 years with 44 points.

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Slinging World Cup 2025 Gallery