Caught between a rock . . . and a scissors

The hard-fought Rock Paper Scissors championship is an exercise in strategy and tactics, writes Edel Morgan

ONE OF the star attractions of the Ballyheigue summer festival in Co Kerry is a nail-biting battle of wits where a cool head and split-second timing are crucial – and the shrewdest players know how to psyche out their opponent in their bid to scoop the All-Ireland trophy. Who knew that Rock Paper Scissors could be so cut throat?

The tournament is now in its sixth year and, weather permitting, will take place at the village green on Sunday. Cheats aren’t tolerated, according to referee Mick Harkin, who says players must deliver throws simultaneously to ensure a fair match.

The judges are wise to people who go too slow, so their opponent shows their hand first, but he says the best players can “almost sense” their adversary’s next move.

But is it all rule books and mind games or just a bit of fun?

“A bit of both. We judge it seriously enough and it’s a game of skill more than luck,” says Harkin, who came up with the idea when he saw his daughter playing the hand game, built around “throwing” gestures symbolising rock, paper and scissors.

If previous years are anything to go by they’re expecting around 140 competitors, with 100 of those being children. Last year, a 14-year-old won while a 7-year-old, the youngest contestant ever, was runner-up. “When we started, we were worried that adults would have the advantage but it’s a very equal game.”

There’s a World RPS Society which dates back to the foundation of the Paper Scissors Stone Club in London in 1842, which provided a safe haven for players when a law was passed declaring that any decision reached by Paper Scissors Stone between two gentleman “shall constitute a binding contract”.

The society holds an annual championship in Canada but the Ballyheigue festival hasn’t propelled any of its winners onto the world stage. “It costs too much unfortunately.”

Harkin says players start by getting “into the zone”, shaking hands and putting one hand behind their backs before starting on the count of three. “Some encounters are over in a flash,” says Harkin, while the finalists, “who can often can read each other and no-one can get the upper hand”, have been known to play up to nine matches.

There’s international debate over the most strategic way to play. Some argue that mathematically, a random approach is best, while others claim that tactical players fare better. For those hoping to gain a psychological edge, research has found that inexperienced female players often play scissors first while rookie men are more likely to open with rock. If in doubt, remember a well-placed rock will crush a carelessly thrown pair of scissors every time.

The other highlight of the festival is Saturday evening’s pig racing on the beach, where six pigs with teddy bears on their backs compete for a prize. “We’re crossing our fingers we get the weather,” says Harkin. “That’s not an event you can run indoors.”