CLARKSVILLE, Tenn (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Clarksville couples will soon have the opportunity to test the strength of their relationship in a unique new race. Christ Lutheran Church of Clarksville will host its inaugural “Carry-Thee Contest” on Saturday, August 17.
Often called wife-carrying contests, Christ Lutheran Church’s race is the only one of its kind in the South. Competing couples will run a timed obstacle course with one carrying the other. There are no limitations on how a competitor carries their partner, but dropping significant other results in a five-second penalty.
Prizes for the “Carry-Thee Contest” are provided by Tennessee Valley Brewing Company with the top prize being a keg of beer and three cigars.
Because the race is sanctioned by the American Wife-Carrying Association, the winners will qualify for the national championship in Maine later this year. The winners of that race will be invited to compete in the international race in Finland.
Wife carrying contests began in Finland almost 100 years ago, and are still popular there today. The trend has since spread to the U.S, where the North American Wife Carrying Championship held its inaugural event in 1999 in Maine.
Christ Lutheran Church’s contest is open to unmarried couples, friends and any other form of relationship. Carried partners must weigh at least 108 pounds, though a weighted bag can be provided to make up the difference.
Registration is $50 and can be purchased through Facebook. The race will be held at Christ Lutheran Church at 2425 Kirkwood Rd on August 17 beginning at 11 a.m.
For more information, contact Pastor Jeff at (931) 624-1724 or at pastorlott@earthlink.net