greasy pole

noun3

1. •
   The slippery pole used in the event.

   • The mud was unspeakable. The paths through the beet-fields were simply a succession of lumps, as slippery as a greasy pole, with huge pools everywhere. — 1938
2. •
   (figurative) The work and scheming that leads to the position of prime minister or other leadership position.

   • I have climbed to the top of the greasy pole. — 1869
3. •
   A sporting event that involves staying on, climbing up, walking over or otherwise traversing a pole that has been made slippery.