Bet that he wrapped the rope around his hand.
That’s my guess too, and I know that’s a big no-no.
How else does one’s hand get “caught” on a rope?
The Tug of War competition is one of the most exhausting and competitively fought-over contests you will see. Here you will see 8 men pulling against another team of eight, coached by an additional member of the team who encourages the team and shouts instructions of technique to ensure they pull their opposite number across the line. It is surprising to find that tug of war is such a fiercely fought over event especially in the Highlands of Scotland. This event is well worth watching, the techniques are well established and enthralling to watch for the spectator