I learned a lot during my year in Ireland. I learned a lot about who I am and who I want to be, about how people operate. I learned how to live in a different culture and pick out Americans as they walked down the street. I also learned about a marvelous game played by Irish (and apparently British) schoolchildren. While American children are chasing each other across the playground, in a modified version of capture the flag (one without a flag), our European counterparts are hitting nuts together. Ok, so I exaggerated a bit: Perhaps they still run around and chase each other, but they DO stand around and hit nuts together. It even has a standarized name: “Conkers”
In order to play this game, one must first find a nut (chestnuts, I believe) and drill a hole in it. A string (called ‘leather’ ) is strung through and tied at one end to keep the nut from coming off. Then, you find your mate (friend), who also has dutifully prepared for the game. One of you holds the string by one end, letting the nut hang, while the other takes his nut and smacks yours. The goal is to break the other person’s nut.
Yes, I laughed hard when I learned this was a game. And then quickly shut up when I realized how popular it is. Apparently, nuts get harder with age, so it’s best to drill a hole, and let the nut sit out for a season or two before competing with it. Also, a coat of fingernail polish makes it harder and prettier.
And…apparently there’s a championship.
