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The Chap & Hendricks Olympiad

Saturday 14th July saw the third annual gentleman’s ‘sporting’ day hosted by both The Chap magazine and Hendrick’s Gin where gents, cads and raconteurs alike compete in a trial of quintessentially vintage, spoof games aims to buffoon modern sensibilities and celebrate the bravado of bygone British wit and style.

The games begun at the lighting of the ‘Olympic Pipe’ and curious onlookers who peeked through the fences and foliage of Bedford Square Gardens were as confused as they were amused to see a foray of immaculate vintage garments, eccentric old school ties and iconic British militaria (complete with pith helmets) on display.

Whilst the band played and the ladies reclined upon an array of rugs amidst the trees and shrubs, nibbling sandwiches and sipping as much complementary gin as their delicate constitutions could handle in one afternoon, the men folk prepared to show off their sporting prowess and camaraderie whilst playing rounds of ’Bounders’, ‘Neck-tie Kwon Do’ and ‘Umbrella Hockey’ among other burlesqued games.

Although the competitions were fiercely well mannered , rivalries for the coveted ‘golden bowler hats’ could be seen emerging as the day wore on and the portaloos grew busy while the Hendrick’s Gin became in danger of running dry. However, not a single contestant was ever in danger of forgetting his manners. In fact, during the Pipe Smokers Relay, the competitors were rather insistent on allowing the other chaps to go first ensuring a lengthy round of ‘no, no after you, I insist’.

Keeping up the spirit (and spirits) of vintage Britain, this event attracted over 700 people and was a major success for The Chap, Hendrick’s Gin and for all who took part in the fun; the Olympiad was a rare treat for anyone bored of high street chains, fast food and trendy culture and was an essential day out for spectators of style and sports alike.