"Jousting. The word itself brings to mind knights in shining armor, visions of spirited war horses that prance, rear and charge as King Arthur's champions gallop toward each other with lance and shield at the ready." James Zoppe, founder and director of the American Jousting Alliance, wrote these words about his experiences. He lives and works in Frazier Park, where he is building a growing movement to revive the ancient equestrian sport of jousting.

According to Zoppe, Modern Tournament Jousting is a true contact sport with both knights trying for good, solid hits on their opponent's shield.

"This combat is in every aspect a real joust. It is a feeling like no other when you slide your helmet onto your head and adjust the straps. Your breath is hot around your face. You can't hear or see very well. Everything takes on a distant, otherworldly feeling as though you have been transported back in time. At that moment, you know how knights felt 500 years ago, preparing for battle. Your heart is pumping rapidly, the adrenaline is flowing. Your warhorse is prancing in anticipation, ready to explode forward. He is not easy to control ..."