With small time sporting events like the Olympics and test rugby over it is time to get down to the real competition - like the eighth Santa world championships.
The global financial crisis meant donkeys were used instead of reindeer, and while they proved as stubborn as mules it didn't stop the competitors delivering their sackfuls of joy, or showing off in the costume section.
The Santa gymnasts were the winners for the third straight year, but no matter who took out the prize money, sport was truly the winner on the day.