Hundreds of spectators gathered in a London park on Saturday to witness a performance art piece where two individuals jousted on Lime e-bikes while wearing armor. The event, dubbed 'Lime bike Jousting 2: No Horses, No Mercy,' saw artist Jack Carden and actor Camtholomew the First charge at each other with lances.
Despite Lime issuing a warning that their bikes are designed for transportation and not for jousting, the event proceeded. The organizers stated their intention was to "spark some joy into the lives of Londoners." The exact location of the joust was revealed only 90 minutes before it began, drawing a crowd of over 5,000 people who had registered interest.
Camtholomew the First, whose real name is Cameron Carnegie-Brown, was declared the winner after five rounds. He described the experience as adrenaline-pumping and a way to "feel alive." The 'knights' were assisted into their armor before mounting their decorated electric bikes, with 'ring maidens' in medieval dress signaling the rounds.
Organizers claim they informed the council and had a safety team, including first aiders and stewards, in place. They also stated they had communicated with Lime, who reportedly did not forbid the event but advised reinforcing safety messages. However, Hackney Council has stated it did not give permission for the event to take place in London Fields.
The performance art, created by Jack Carden and filmmaker Camtholomew, is a modern interpretation of jousting. The first jousting event was held last month in London Fields and gained significant attention online. The organizers mentioned they turned down a £1 million sponsorship offer for the event, believing that commercialization could detract from its artistic value.
Traditional jousting figures have given their approval, with Andy Deane, captain of the Royal Armouries jousting team, calling it a "joy" to see the spectacle captured. The event also raised over £1,200 for charities including The Bike Project, Honour Thy Woman Group, and the Mental Health Foundation.