The Museum of Danish America in
Elk Horn is stepping back into medieval times with a fun challenge for children
in the spirit of similar competitions held in Sønderborg, Denmark. “Ringridning,” or
tilting-at-the-rings, is traditionally completed on horseback, however, the
museum’s version has been adapted for kids. Instead of horses, they will use
bicycles on the east lawn of the museum.
During ringridning, riders charge
towards a ring suspended on a rope and try to catch the ring on a lance.
Four runs are taken at the ring, and the rings become smaller in size for each
successive run. The winner of the event is the person who manages to
catch the most rings. All participants will be rewarded with ice cream,
but the winners of the competition will be bestowed King or Queen (first
place), Crown Prince or Crown Princess (second place), and Prince or Princess
(third place). Prizes will also be awarded to the winners.
The free event will be held on
Saturday, May 24 at 1:30 p.m. Registration can be completed between noon and
1:30 p.m. at the museum. There will be two age categories: 4-7 years and
8-12 years. Participants should bring their own decorated bicycle (and helmet),
as a special prize is awarded for the best decorated bike. A few extra bicycles
and helmets will be available for children who do not have one. The "lance"
used to spear the rings will be provided.