Parasol Dueling

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What is Parasol Dueling?

Parasol Dueling is a beloved steampunk tradition and a test of grace, strategy, and Victorian flair. Open to all participants regardless of age or gender, it is best described as Rock, Paper, Scissors with parasols! No physical contact is made at any time. All duelists remain unblemished and thoroughly dignified throughout.

The Three Positions

Each duelist must choose one of three parasol positions when the referee calls the duel:
  1. The Plant (Rock)
    Hold the parasol point-down to the ground in front of you, with shoulders slightly arched forward.
  2. The Twirl (Paper)
    Open the parasol, place it on your shoulder, and give it a twirl.
  3. The Snub (Scissors)
    Point the closed parasol directly toward your opponent, then open it.

What Beats What?

Following the rules of Rock, Paper, Scissors:
  • The Twirl (Paper) defeats the Plant (Rock)
  • The Plant (Rock) defeats the Snub (Scissors)
  • The Snub (Scissors) defeats the Twirl (Paper)

How a Duel is Conducted

  1. Two duelists stand back to back at the start of each round.
  2. The referee counts five paces. Duelists take five regular walking steps forward. Large or irregular steps are not permitted.
  3. At the referee’s call of “Pose and Turn!”, both duelists strike one of the three positions, then turn to face each other.
  4. The referee declares the winner of the round.
  5. If both duelists choose the same position, the round is repeated until a winner is determined.
  6. The best two out of three rounds wins the duel.

Tournament Format

  • All duelists will compete in three preliminary rounds, facing a different opponent each time.
  • Points are awarded based on how quickly a round is won: 1st pose = 5 points, 2nd pose = 4 points, 3rd pose = 3 points, 4th pose = 2 points, 5th pose and beyond = 1 point.
  • The top eight duelists advance to the quarterfinals, then four to the semifinals, and two to the final duel.

General Rules

  • No physical contact of any kind is permitted at any time.
  • Duelists must conduct themselves with Victorian grace and good sportsmanship throughout.
  • The referee’s decision is final.
  • Parasols will be provided for all participants.
  • Sign up at the Parasol Dueling station on festival day. Free to enter!
May your twirl be swift and your snub be decisive. En garde!

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