Watch: Challengers Slip And Slide Attempting To Conquer Traditional Ġostra Pole In Msida
One of the most exciting Maltese traditions went down in the seaside town of Msida over the weekend as it celebrated the feast of St Joseph.
Challengers lined up to run across the slippery giant ġostra pole standing tall above the water for a tradition that sees runners attempt to get across the pole as fast as they can and snatch the coloured flag at the end of it.
However, it’s easier said than done.
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The traditional event, celebrated for over 200 years and held in a number of localities around the island, elicits cheers and shouts from the gathered crowd.
Momentum is lost, friction eases up and traction is lost as hopefuls fall into the waters below, all the while reaching for the flag placed at the end of the 16-metre post.
Crowds gather in glee to cheer and applaud as each participant takes their turn at capturing the flag. Few suffer slight injuries from belly flops and shallow waters.
Only those who take part in the organisation of the feast itself are allowed to take the rite of traditional passage.
Flags in three different colours are placed at different lengths along the pole, each waiting for crazy contestants to make a leap of faith for them as they slide down into the waters below.
Buckets of lard are then slathered all over the upper-facing side of the pole.
It takes courage to try and overcome the Maltese tradition – but for those that do, a wet flag, a cheering crowd and bragging rights for a year are the reward.
Photos by Marietta Lanzon
Have you ever tried the ġostra yourself?
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