It could all be about to kick off at tomorrow’s World Puddle Jumping Championships in Kettering – with the people in charge of the event taking it so seriously, they’ve banned kids from drinking fizzy pop or energy drinks beforehand in case it gives them an unfair advantage. Blimey!


It seem the organisers of the competition, which is part of a bigger Playday event, are worried that children who down such high-energy beverages before their puddle-jump could have an advantage over their milk or water-quaffing peers when it comes to bigger splashes and higher jumps.

Judges score the championship – which has been won by a 7-year-old and a 9-year-old in the past 2 years – on height of jump, enthusiasm and stickability (how much mud sticks to the wellies when they jump). But the biggest marks are given for the size of the splash.

Speaking about their no-fizzy-drinks plea to parents, the park’s managing director Alasdair McNee said: “Playday is all about free, healthy fun and, to promote that, we are asking competitors to stay away from certain drinks before they jump.

“We understand that some children see these items as treats, so maybe parents can allow their children to consume them after they have enjoyed the fresh air and exercise of taking part.”

Wonder what Peppa would make of all this…

What do you think?

Do you reckon your child can jump higher when they’ve had a fizzy drink? Or do you just keep them away from fizzy drinks – and puddles – in general? Please tell us in the comments below.

Read more