Irish Stick Fighting
Irish Stick Fighting is actually called Dance of the Whiskey Stick, as it is translated from Gaelic: Rince an Bhata Uisce Bheatha. Irish Stick Fighting is a martial art that originates in Ireland. The martial art is a style of the Doyle Clan, and was traditionally used to settle disputes amongst the laymen in the country back in the 18th and 19th centuries. The first type of Irish Stick Fighting is believed to have originated much earlier, when weapons were banned in Ireland. As a result, an extensive and comprehensive method of self defence and fighting was developed using a stick. However, Rince an Bhata Uisce Bheatha was developed from the influence of the Doyle Clan, who applied boxing movements and techniques to the already existing stick fighting style. Hence, Rince an Bhata Uisce Bheatha was born.
Techniques of Irish Stick Fighting, or Rince an Bhata Uisce Bheatha
Irish Stick Fighting utilizes a walking stick crafted from wood, called a bata or shillelagh. The stick is considered simply as an extension of the practitioner’s hands, therefore most techniques involve jabbing or punching, and thrusting the stick. The stick can also be used to block an attack and to disarm the opponent.
The stick is used with both hands, and both ends of the stick can be used to attack an opponent. Most attacks are designed for close range fighting.
Drills are extensive, combining movements to make them fluid. Sparring is also an essential part of Irish Stick Fighting training, with specific rules that govern each match.