Tug Of War Championships: Meet the Team - Tug of War Q&A

With anticipation building ahead of the official World Tug of War Championships, which kick off this Thursday, 4th September 2025, at the University of Nottingham’s Highfields Sports Complex, the anticipation among fans and athletes alike is reaching new heights. This prestigious event will bring together the strongest teams from around the globe, all vying for the coveted world title in a sport that demands not only power but also strategy, endurance, and teamwork.

In the lead-up to the competition, we had the opportunity to catch up with a member of the Lithuanian club VTK „Ąžuolas“. We sat down with one of their competing athletes to talk about their preparations, what makes tug of war such a unique and challenging discipline, and how it feels to represent Lithuania on the world stage.

Meet the Team: Tug of War Q&A

• Name: Danas Kukutis
• Club: VTK „Ąžuolas“
• Country: Lithuania 🇱🇹

1. How did you first get into tug of war?

One day, while I was running at our local indoor track, I noticed a group of people pulling a rope. I stopped to watch, got curious, and asked if I could try. That moment changed everything — I stayed with them and never looked back.

2. Tell us a bit about your team: where you're from, how long you’ve been pulling together, and what makes your team special.

VTK „Ąžuolas“ is based in Panevėžys, northern Lithuania. The club has been around for 21 years and has played a big role in developing the sport nationally. A few years ago, when the former team leader stepped down, I took over as team manager. Since then, I’ve been proud to lead this group of incredibly dedicated athletes.

3. What is it about tug of war that really hooks you in?

The combination of physical strength, perfect timing, and unity. It’s not just about power — it’s about being part of something bigger than yourself.

4. Tug of war isn’t a traditional sport people think of, why do you think it flies under the radar?

Because people often mistake it for a casual game. They don’t realize how much discipline, planning, and teamwork it truly requires at a competitive level.

5. What makes it so good to watch in action? What would surprise first-time spectators?

The raw intensity. It’s like a chess match powered by muscle. Spectators are surprised by how strategic and emotional it is — every centimeter gained feels huge.

6. There must be some amazing moments you’ve experienced… any proud team memories, championship highlights, or unforgettable matches you’ll never forget?

The most unforgettable moment for me was in 2022, when I was part of the Lithuanian national team competing at the World Championships in the Netherlands. We reached the finals in the men’s 720 kg category and finished in 4th place. It was historic — the highest

placement ever for our country at that level. Being part of that team, fighting for bronze, and hearing our name among the world’s best — that’s a feeling I’ll never forget.

7. What would you say to someone who’s never considered tug of war before?

Try it once. It’s unlike any other sport — it tests your limits and rewards teamwork above everything else.

8. Is it a sport for everyone? What kind of skills or mindset do you need to be part of a successful team?

Yes. All you need is commitment, trust, and the willingness to learn. Strength helps, but mindset and timing are everything.

9. What’s the training like? How tough does it get?

Training is intense — physically and mentally. We work on technique, strength, endurance, and team coordination. You can be strong alone, but if you can’t pull together, you won’t win.

10. The World Championships are coming up this September, why should people come along and watch it live?

Because it’s an unforgettable experience. You’ll see true teamwork, national pride, and high-level competition that’s both powerful and precise.

11. What does it mean to you to compete at a world level and to travel the world to different countries?

It’s a huge honour. It means representing not just your club, but your entire country. And it’s inspiring to connect with athletes from all over the world.

12. What motto do you live by?

Lead by example — never ask your team to do something you wouldn’t do yourself.

• Instagram: (@dkukutis) (@vtk_azuolas)
• Facebook: Danas Kukutis

The upcoming event is expected to attract around 1,500 to 2,000 participants from over 20 countries. With free entry for all spectators, it’s the perfect opportunity to get involved, discover a unique sport you may have never experienced before, and enjoy four thrilling days of action, excitement, and competition.