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AXE THROWING
The Remarkable Backyard League That Inspired International Axe Throwing
Tracing the origins of the modern-day sport of axe throwing
In the last twenty years, a new axe throwing phenomenon has erupted onto the world. It is typified by throwing hatchet-size axes, predominantly indoors, at commercial, dedicated axe throwing venues. This axe throwing phenomenon has spread throughout the world, as enthusiasts and entrepreneurs have championed it in their localities, but its origins can be traced back to a single backyard in Toronto, the birthplace of the Backyard Axe Throwing League (BATL).
Backyard Beginnings (2006–2011)
“I’m throwing axes in my backyard, if you’re interested come on out” read the email sent out by Matt Wilson to his mates in 2006. Ten were interested. The Backyard Axe Throwing League was born.
Matt Wilson had recently returned from a short break at Turkey Point on the banks of Lake Erie. There, Wilson and his companions had started throwing axes as an evening recreation. He returned home hooked on this new activity.
Once back in his home in Toronto, Wilson lashed some old planks together in his backyard, bought a cheap hatchet from his local hardware store and invited his…
