Tug of War World Championships 2025: Vulcan Sports Proud to Support Teams in Nottingham
The University of Nottingham’s Highfields Sports Complex came alive earlier this month as it hosted the 2025 Tug of War World Championships. More than 1,200 athletes from 20 nations competed across four days, marking the first time in 25 years that England had staged the event. Crowds lined the ropes, cheering as teams responded to the familiar calls of “pick up the rope, take the strain, pull!”.
For Vulcan Sports, it was a proud occasion. As a major kit supplier for tug of war teams in the UK and Ireland, we were delighted to see so many of our partners competing on home soil, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s best.
Highlights from Our Teams
Every squad we supported gave their all in Nottingham, and several produced memorable performances that will live long in the history of the sport.
Team England, wearing our distinctive kits, delivered their strongest-ever World Championship showing, collecting a remarkable haul of 15 medals. The men’s 640kg squad pulled to glory against Switzerland in a dramatic final, while the under-23 mixed team also claimed gold. Across junior, senior, and under-23 categories, England consistently impressed, cheered on by passionate home support.
Bedford Ladies (Bedfordshire TOW) proved once again why they are among the most respected teams in the sport. Competing both as a club and as part of Team England, they secured bronze in the senior women’s 500kg category, adding another chapter to their proud history.
Upper Eden TOW showed the strength of youth development in tug of war. Their junior women earned a place on the podium in the 480kg class, a fantastic achievement that highlighted the bright future of the club and the sport.
From Bosley TOW, individuals like George Lane and Tim Whilock captured the spotlight with multiple podium finishes across junior and under-23 divisions. For a village club, their success was nothing short of extraordinary, demonstrating how talent and teamwork can shine on the world stage.
Representing Ireland, Killroe TOW made their mark by winning the under-23 mixed 560kg competition, underlining the fierce quality of Irish tug of war and continuing the strong sporting ties between the UK and Ireland.
Strong Efforts Across the Board
Alongside these standout achievements, many of our other supported clubs pulled with heart and determination throughout the championships:
Melton Mowbray TOW Ladies fought their way deep into the women’s 500kg, finishing just shy of the podium in fourth place.
Anstey TOW, reigning UK champions in the men’s 560kg, tested themselves against the very best internationally.
York TOW competed across mixed categories and brought their trademark team spirit to the field.
Hay-on-Wye TOW proudly represented their region in the men’s events.
Felton Eccles TOW delivered a strong performance in the heavyweight contests.
Sheen TOW gained valuable international experience in the junior and under-23 divisions.
Each of these teams contributed to making Nottingham 2025 a success story, representing their clubs, regions, and nations with pride.
Celebrating the Spirit of Tug of War
More than just results, the championships showcased the camaraderie and respect that make tug of war unique. As Tug of War International Federation president Dan McCarthy reminded everyone:
“People have this idea that tug of war is just for big heavy men… which is a misunderstanding. Win, lose or draw, everybody shakes hands.”
That spirit was clear in Nottingham. Whether winning gold or simply testing themselves against international rivals, every team played their part in an unforgettable event.
Vulcan Sports’ Pride
At Vulcan Sports, we could not be prouder of the athletes who wore our kits throughout the championships. From grassroots clubs to national teams, they demonstrated the very best of tug of war: teamwork, determination, and respect.
We congratulate each and every competitor and look forward to supporting the sport as it continues to grow in the UK, Ireland, and beyond.
Thanks to Steve Miles for capturing these unforgettable moments — explore more highlights in the gallery below.
(Photo credit: Steven Miles)
