A boomerang is a long wooden object with two pieces connected at an angle of around 45�, and which has wing shape to enable it to fly with greater ease. It is most likely to be Australian in origin, although ancient models have been found in Poland, Egypt and Denmark. In Australia it was used by aborigines to capture their prey and its design enables the boomerang to return to where it was thrown. In fact, archaeological remains of boomerangs (called Kilie or Karlie in Aborigine) measuring 130 cm, weighing around one kilogram and capable of flying some 200 metres have been found in Australia.�

Boomeranging, the sport, currently has a great number of followers in the U.S., Italy, Holland and Germany. The sport was born in 1969 in the U.S. and became known as boomeranging. Here the USBA (United States Boomerang Asociation), was created ten years later and organises all sorts of competitions and events. In Spain, the number of aficionados is still small, although in October 2003, the First National Boomeranging Championship was held in Madrid. It is therefore probable that the number of aficionados will gradually increase.

The first steps
The first step for those who would like to try their hand at this sport is, logically, to purchase a boomerang. However, this is no simple task in Spain, although specialised sports stores and even DIY stores usually have a few models to choose from. It is best to ask advice, as there are several different varieties of varying width and materials.

Before starting to throw the boomerang, you have to bear in mind the space needed, as a large and deserted area is required if you are to avoid hitting people, lampposts, cables or trees. It is also best if the surface is soft, such as sand or grass, as the object could break on hard surfaces such as concrete.

The second condition the beginner must observe is the wind. Ideally it should be non-existent or gentle and at least blowing in a single direction, as blustery winds make it difficult to make the boomerang flying straight.

Once these two factors have been taken into account, the secret of throwing is in the way you hold and launch the boomerang. It is best to hold it firmly, hold it at head height and throw it in a straight line so that it flies in a vertical direction and at a slight angle to the floor. This is of course the theory and you must practise often to achieve the correct method to enable the boomerang to return to its original position.�

Sporting variations
No doubt that beginner boomerang throwers will be happy enough for the object to return to them and no more. But for those who are keen to reach competition standard, below are some of the main variations of the sport. Keep in mind that the competition area is made up of a two metre area where the thrower launches the object and concentric circles of 4, 6, 8, 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 metres around him or her.

Accuracy: The throw must never pass the 20-metre circle and, if not caught, must come as close to the starting point as possible.
Fast Catch: Also within the 20-metre circle and consisting of throwing and catching the boomerang a total of five times within a minute.
Endurance: Similar to the previous variation, but involving throwing and catching the boomerang the maximum number of times within five minutes.
MTA 100 (Maximum Time in the Air): Where the boomerang must hang in the air as long as possible.
Long Distance: Throwing it as far as possible. It should pass the 50-metre circle and return within the 20-metre one.