Mangold Hurling as we know it today became properly established in the 19th century, when it afforded the humble farm labourer a rare opportunity to engage in sport on an equal footing with his master. Each village had its team of Hurlers, and the game was played throughout the drained flood plains of south-west England known as the Somerset Levels. Some historians think this may have given rise to the expression "a level playing field", but they are probably wrong.
Right: a drainage ditch or "Rhyne" on the Somerset Levels. If a competitor’s mangold lands in one of these during a competition his chances of winning are greatly diminished.
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