The Whip Enthusiasts

What is the Whip Enthusiasts about?

The primary objectives and purposes of this  international non-profit organization are:

* To promote the art of whip cracking as a competitive sport and family recreation

* To develop whip handling skills and techniques

* To render assistance to everyone that has an interest in whips, without prejudice

* To support the organization of whip cracking practices and workshops through a network of affiliates

* To provide advice and information on whips and whip cracking

* To publish educational materials on whips and whip cracking

* To ensure that whip cracking is always done with due regard to safety

* To organize whip cracking shows, demonstrations, festivals and sporting competitions

What is sport whip cracking?

Competitions are usually individual achievements and judging rules can vary from region to region. There are often divisions by age or experience, but not usually by gender.

Targeting contests vary from event to event but most follow a few basic styles;

• Precision events - Where a series of targets placed at different heights or dimensions are struck in sequence from a measured distance away using alternating arms. A common modifier to increase difficulty allows each target to only be attempted once. Point values decrease for incomplete cuts or missed targets.
• Speed events - Where a series of targets are rapidly struck in sequence for an overall timed score. Penalties are added for missed targets or incomplete cracks.
• Themed challenges - These are often creative tests of a whip handler's skill and are judged by the number of strokes taken to accomplish a set goal. Event organizers often take a light hearted or unique approach to a technical skill and make an inclusive and fun contest.

Freeform cracking is one of the most difficult competition types to judge but by far some of the most exciting to watch. Freeform routines are a flashy display of multiple cracking skill sometimes matched to music. Competitors are usually judged on style, artistic presentation and technical merits by a panel of judges watching for technique and difficulty. Required patterns are woven into an impressive show of whip handling that can be awe inspiring. The tables linked below outline some of the recognized Freeform techniques and the maximum point value given to each. This short listing is not meant to be comprehensive or definitive and some techniques may be known by more than one name. We strive to list the original name wherever possible. Please email Sebastian with any updates or additional information.

Whip Safety

Whips can cut flesh, break bones, put out an eye, or slice off an ear. Treat them with respect and use these common sense safety precautions to limit damage to the occasional welt.

Protect Other People

• Be aware of the space all around you, including directly behind you and over your head. Allow plenty of room for your whip to crack.
• Do not fool around with a whip or threaten anyone with it. Uncontrolled and unscripted use of a whip can have unpredictable results.
• Never use a whip where it might pick up dirt or gravel and fling it at someone.

Protect Yourself

• Wear protective clothing. Eye protection is required. Gloves will prevent blisters on your hands. Ear plugs will make the sound level more comfortable. A stout jacket and pants may save you some welts.
• When you are not cracking, stay clear of the practice area. Do not enter anyone else's space without warning them. Remember they may be wearing ear plugs so make sure they acknowledge you.

Protect the Whips

• Do not crack the whip too loud. It is bad for the whip and unpleasant for other people. True control of the whip means you can crack it as quietly as you like.
• Do not use anyone else's whip without permission.
• When you are not using a whip, do not leave it where someone might tread on it or trip over it.

the above is modified from the Bullwhip FAQ