Part rugby scrum, part riot, occasionally a sprint, always social - the Kirkwall Ba' is a fixed part of Christmas in Orkney and has to be experienced to be understood. This is street football at its best. No rules, no limit on participants, games can last for hours. The Mens Ba' goes up at 1pm, after the Boys which takes place at 10am. The game will continue until one team manages to get the ball into their own goal (the harbour for the Doonies, a gable wall at the other end of town for the Uppies). This can take a while during which onlookers, shout and cheer, chat, shuffle and stamp to keep warm; ever mindful that if the ball heads their way it is vital to move quickly if you do not want to be caught up in the action. It is Christmas - but with a difference.

Kirkwall, Orkney. The Ba' is thrown from the Cathedral steps at the heart of the town on Christmas Eve.
Google map: bit.ly/gZl04s

I agreeI disagree

1.  
2. Send to friends