Competing with convention: RT’s pick of 2011

With 2011 almost over, it is high time to reflect on the teams and athletes that made an impact in the sporting world. While some were busy setting world records and helping their teams with trophies, others were winning in less conventional ways.

Running up flights of stairs and riding a bike are both good exercise. But going up the stairs on a bike is a completely different ballgame.

Well-known footballer Xavi is often putting on a show in Barcelona, but this time it was the slightly less famous Xavi Ksas stealing the spotlight from his soccer namesake. With a flawless technique he was able to ascend 150 floors, setting a new record.

Roaches running for charity

Australia's most athletic cockroaches are given an opportunity to showcase their unique physical gifts.

The 30th annual Cockroach Races in Queensland drew plenty of interest with competitors really itching to get out of the gates. Fourteen events in all were to be contested between more than 500 participants.

The cost of owning your very own thoroughbred insect athlete is just $10, and proceeds from the tournament are given to local charities.

Let’s roll!

Crashes are always something to be avoided, especially in motorsport,but sending your vehicle tumbling down long and long straight is the only way to win the Ramp Rollover Championships. It sees the participants trying their best to crash in style, and earn points.

But for some, just getting out of the car in one piece is reward enough. Twenty-nine-year-old Wayne Drury emerged as the winner from all this CARnage.

Blade runners

Using the lawnmower has never been this much fun or competitive. The motorists in this competition are divided in three groups from simple-engined all the way to cutting edge of grass trimming. Mike Cresswell was a cut above the rest in Group 2 in a 10-lap race.

Dirty play

Sub-par playing conditions are the essence of this footballing competition rather than a nuisance.

Mud, sweat and tears on the pitches at the Swamp Soccer World Cup in Scotland with participants really having no choice but to play dirty.

Brazil, Holland and even Russia are among the countries where the sport is growing increasingly popular.