Emprise of the Black Lion Tournaments (Saturday, September 13)

The format of the "Champion of the Emprise of the Black Lion" tournaments are inspired by the 1460 treatise by René of Anjou "traictié de la forme et devis d'ung tournoy".

Our Noble Judges will be choosing the overall winners. There will be three prizes awarded, one for the Ride Before a Prince, one for lance sports, and one for the joust.

First, all riders should plan to impress the judges with a concise presentation! Bring your pageantry -- banners, retainers, caparisoned horses, plumes, pennants, and heralds. Make it short and memorable, and you are sure to make a good first impression.

Second, display your equestrian skills by demonstrating the historical riding patterns that show off your horse to best advantage, known as Ride Before a Prince. This involves re-creating the historical training maneuvers of your choice within an 80x80 foot space.

After lunch, a display of martial skills with lances! One at a time, demonstrate your horsemanship to the assembled judges:

• Receive a quintain lance and show your precision picking up a ring from the stand (left side, over the tilt)
• Show your precision and follow-through striking the quintain (open field)
• Show your precision and adaptability striking heads at 3 heights (open field)
• Return your lance, thank the judges and crew and exit the field.

Then, a joust! Foam tipped lances will be provided.

Riders of all authorization levels and skills are encouraged to take part. You don't have to be authorized for jousting to participate, as the joust will be scored separately from the other games.