Jereed
Cirit, originally developed as a method to improve the use of spears and lances in mounted combat, has evolved into a structured sport over time. Its origins suggest that the cirit stick or tool was initially used as a training instrument for enhancing combat skills, with the exercises conducted on horseback eventually forming the basis of a game with established rules.
Also known as Çavgan, cirit is a traditional equestrian sport that has been played by Turks for centuries. Introduced to Anatolia alongside Alparslan and the Seljuk Turks, it later spread to Europe and Arabian countries. By the 17th century, it had gained popularity in France, Germany, and other regions. In the 16th century, cirit was recognized as a martial game by the Ottoman Turks, and by the 19th century, it had become one of the most prominent sports and performances in Ottoman society, especially in royal courts. However, due to its dangerous nature, Sultan Mahmud II banned the game in 1826. Despite this, it regained popularity and continued to be played as a primary show and combat game across the Ottoman territories.
In modern-day Anatolia, cirit is played at weddings and festivals by villagers and townsfolk. It is more prevalent in rural areas than in large cities. From Sinop villages to Gaziantep and Bursa to Antalya, cirit is considered one of the principal traditional sports, alongside wrestling, across Eastern, Western, Southern, and Northern Anatolia. To attract spectators, drums and zurnas (traditional wind instruments) are often played during matches. Cirit also retains its vibrancy and traditions among Turks in Iran, Afghanistan, Turkestan, and other regions of Central Asia inhabited by Turkish communities.
Rules and Gameplay
Cirit is played between two teams on a field measuring 70 to 120 meters in width. Each team consists of 5, 6, or 7 players positioned at the far ends of the field. Players mount their horses dressed in regional attire. In their right hand, they hold the javelin (cirit) for throwing, while their left hand carries a spare javelin and a whip.
The game begins with a player charging forward to within 30–40 meters of the opposing team’s formation and throwing their javelin at one of the opposing players. The attacker then swiftly retreats to their starting position while an opponent gives chase and throws their javelin in return. These maneuvers continue in rotation throughout the game.
Playing Field and Rules
The game is played on a 120x40-meter field divided by white lines. The match lasts for two 35-minute halves. The field is divided into specific zones:
- Alay Durağı (Team Station): A 6-meter-deep zone where the team lines up in a single row.
- Yasak Alan (Prohibited Zone): A 5-meter-deep restricted area between the team station and the throwing zone. No more than two players may be in this zone at any time, and violations result in a 1-point penalty.
- Atış Alanı (Throwing Zone): A 7-meter-deep area extending from the edge of the prohibited zone to the center of the field. Players must throw their javelins from within this zone.
Scoring System
Point-earning actions:
- Hitting an opponent in the midfield: +4 points
- Forgiving an opponent (not throwing at a vulnerable target): +3 points
- Blocking an opponent’s path: +3 points
- Catching a thrown javelin mid-air (excluding within the team station): +3 points
Point-deducting actions:
- Throwing from a dangerously close distance: -3 points
- Intentionally colliding one’s horse with an opponent’s: -3 points
- Deliberately striking an opponent’s horse: -1 point
- Throwing outside the designated throwing zone: -1 point
- Falling from the horse: -3 points
- Exceeding the player limit in the prohibited zone: -1 point
Player Attire and Horse Equipment
Player Attire:
- Shirt: High-collared and buttoned, designed in the team’s colors.
- Vest: Sleeveless, double-layered, and styled like a traditional jacket.
- Trousers: Narrow at the cuffs and wide above the knees for ease of movement.
- Boots: Riding boots specifically designed for cirit.
Horse Equipment:
- Headgear, saddle, and stirrups are designed to enhance control and stability. Referees inspect this equipment before the match begins.
Cirit remains an important cultural and historical sport, embodying the values of bravery, agility, and tradition passed down through generations.