Trompo or Trompos is a traditional game popular in much of Latin America, including Ecuador. Children of all ages can play this game. The Trompo is a special top. They were originally made of wood, but they can also be made of plastic or metal. The tops are pear-shaped amd fat on the top and thin near the end. At the very end is a thin metal tip to help the tops spin faster. String is then wound around the top beginning at the metal tip and winding upwards.
This game is played in many different nations, each culture playing a little differently. However, the game is basically the same and beloved by everyone. Here’s how to play:
• The game is played with two opponents.
• Each player should have a Trompo.
• Draw a circle on a flat surface. This is where the tops should play.
• The strings should be wound tightly on the top.
• The top should be thrown (like a yo-yo) and the string pulled. The top should spin within the circle.
• The goal is to knock the other player’s top down or out of the ring. The last top standing is the winner.
• The string tied around the tip of the top can be used to control the top.
• The faster it spins the more likely it is to be the winner.
• Another way to play is to see who can knock the Trompo the farthest out of the ring.
In Ecuador, Trompo is a very popular game, one of the national games of Ecuador. Children and adults play the game. It is treated like a holiday. The traffic is stopped and they compete in the streets, even in large cities. It can be played in teams and there are often large tournaments. Crowds gather to watch the throwing top tournaments for hours. It is a fun game that involves the entire community.
