A boomerang is a curved throwing instrument, used historically for functions including hunting and communication. Today, it is used in many different types of competitions. These competitions challenge participants on throwing distance, accuracy, catching and ability to perform tricks.

Boomerang is a tournament sport, popular in the United States, Europe and Australia. Participants compete in events that challenge accuracy, endurance and creativity. Competitions are generally held in large open areas, featuring a circular throwing area.

Throw and/or catch a boomerang in the correct manner, dependent on competition type.

Competitions vary, but all carry three universal rules: 1) the boomerang must travel at least 20 meters 2) throws take place individually 3) throwers stand in the center of concentric rings marked on an open field.

Boomerangs have been used throughout history in Europe, Africa and most famously, Australia. There, Aborigines used it for hunting, religious and communication purposes. As Westerners came to Australia, the boomerang was increasingly used for sporting purposes. In the 20th century, boomerangs began being produced from birch plywood, hardwood and plastic. Today, boomerang is a popular competitive and recreational sport in the United States, Europe and Australia. Competitive disciplines include Aussie round, accuracy, endurance, fast catch, trick catch, consecutive catch, MTA 100, long distance and juggling.

Boomerang

Boomerangs move quickly through the air and can often land in unexpected places. As such, participants and spectators should always be alert and attentive.

A well-developed upper body can improve distance and control when throwing a boomerang.

Aborigines - group of people who originally inhabited Australia

Aussie Round - the ultimate test of boomerang skills; competitor is given five chances to throw the boomerang to cross a 50 meter circle and return to the center

Accuracy - type of competition where points are awarded for throwing the boomerang closest to the center of concentric rings

Consecutive Catch - type of competition where points are awarded

Endurance - type of competition where points are awarded for the highest amount of catches in a five minute span

Fast Catch - type of competition where points are awarded for throwing and catching the boomerang five times in the quickest amount of time

Trick Catch - type of competition where points are awarded for catches made behind the back, between the legs, etc.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boomerang