Human Spire

It refers to the massive, multi-tiered human towers built in Catalonia, Spain - The first recorded human pyramid was built in 1712 (313 years ago) in the Catalan town of Valla, near Tarragona.

They are widely considered a competitive sport in addition to being a rich cultural tradition.

Known locally as "Castells" (which translates to castles in Catalan), this practice dates back to the 18th century. 

While they began as a performance during local village festivals, they have evolved heavily over the decades into an organized, athletic team discipline.

Why it is considered a sport

✓ Organized Competitions: Every two years, the city of Tarragona hosts the Concurs de Castells, a major world championship where the top colles (teams) compete to build the most difficult and highest towers.

✓ Athletic Training: Building towers that reach up to 10 stories high requires rigorous physical conditioning, immense strength from the base members, and exceptional balance and agility from the climbers.

✓ Scoring Rules: Teams earn points based on the complexity, height, and successful execution of the tower (it must be safely erected and completely dismantled without collapsing).

In 2010 (the year when I went back to the University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman Northern Samar so as to complete my degree), the tradition was also declared a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

Primarily, the Bible has this to say: 

“Every athlete exercises discipline in every way. They do it to win a perishable crown, but we an imperishable one. (1 Corinthians 9:25).