Olympic events that didn't run the course!

Tug of war - this event took place between 1900 and 1920.

Duelling pistols - firing at 'dummies', this event was a one-off in Stockholm in 1912.

Rope climb - originally part of the gymnastics competition, its last appearance was in 1932.

Standing triple jump - pre 1912 all the jumping events were from a standing start.

Solo synchronised swimming - lasted for only three games (1984, 1988 and 1992).

Roque - A US version of croquet that was only played in the US. In 1904 only US athletes competed in this event. It was dropped soon after.

Distance plunging - Another one-off event (1904) that only had American competitors.

Swimming obstacle race - A 200m race incorporating climbing a pole and clambering over and under boats. First and last appearance - 1900.

Jeu de Paume - basically consisted of tennis without any racquets. It was first played as an event in 1908, and withdrawn by 1920.

Live pigeon shooting - Contested only once in 1900 in Paris. In excess of 300 pigeons were killed.

The Mail on Saturday, Saturday, May 2, 2009