Back crook

Description

The Back Crook is a staple method of the Devonshire style, and usually one of the first to be taught. In Devon, it is primarily known as the Back Inside-lock.

Instructions

Starting position

Mr White and Mr Black step back to face each other, having just shaken hands. They stand in the front position. This is the starting position before getting the hitch.

The hitch

Mr Black hitches the jacket at the right shoulder with the right hand and at the base of the jacket with the left hand.

Execute the move

Mr Black approaches with the left foot, and whilst controlling Mr White, quickly hooks his right leg around the Mr White’s left leg.

Execute the move (continued)

Mr Black grabs Mr White’s jacket at the back and draws him in close contact. Mr Black pulls strongly with his right arm so that he has a good hold around the back of Mr White’s neck. Mr Black throws off balance.

Execute the move (continued)

Mr Black rotates his body backwards, as he arches and twists, and meanwhile raises the crooked leg, high and forward. The arms still maintain strong contact.

The back

Mr Black quickly removes his right arm just before touching the ground, whilst controlling Mr White’s landing to ensure the Back.

Key points

1. Bolt on tightly with the ankle and maintain tension.
2. Keep firm contact, especially keeping the arm tight.
3. Twist away whilst throwing backwards.
4. During the throw, the supporting foot is parallel to the line of the feet.
5. Do a quarter turn on the supporting foot.

Common mistakes

1. Not getting a firm hitch.
2. Not turning in enough to bolt the toe.
3. Losing one’s balance before or during the pull.
4. Not maintaining a firm grip during the lift.
5. Not hooking upwards with the crook to lift.
6. Not pulling strongly enough to generate momentum.
7. Not maintaining control until the opponent’s back hits the ground.
8. Any combination of these mistakes.

Counter actions

1. Fore heave: By definition, to pull backwards Mr Black must make himself unbalanced. Mr White might observe how Mr Black’s back is closer to the ground than his own. At this moment Mr White may pull with his right arm and place his right leg on the outside of the opponent’s left leg. Then he continues forwards with a variant of the Fore-Heave.

References

Jaouen, G.; Nichols, M. B.  (2007). Celtic Wrestling The Jacket Styles: History of an old sport & Techniques of Cornu-Breton Wrestling Winners 1928-2006. pp.120-121.

Kendall, B; Chapman, B; Gregory, H; Cundy, T J; Anderson, A; Hooper, J B. (1990), Art of Cornish Wrestling, Reprinted by the Federation of Old Cornwall Societies, pp. 8.

Walker, D. (1840). Defensive Exercises.