The International Jousting Association (IJA) is a world wide governing body for the sport of jousting.
It aims to:
Promote the sport of jousting throughout the world.
Promote IJA sanctioned tournaments throughout the world.
Promote an international standard of certification in jousting and related skills
Promote a high standard of historical accuracy.
Promote a high level of sportsmanship.
Promote a high standard of horse welfare.
Promote a high standard of safety
The IJA was originally formed in England in 1987 by Alan Beattie and some other English Jousters. But it was not until 1996 that the organisation started to become properly established after a meeting in New Zealand between English, Australian and New Zealand jousting representatives.
In 1999 the first IJA tournament was held in New Zealand between Australian and New Zealand jousters. From this modest start the IJA has grown to the point where IJA tournaments are now held throughout the year around the world, attracting riders from its various member groups in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.