Once a year, Coopers Hill in Gloucestershire is a busy and chaotic spot, as that's where the annual ‘Cheese Rolling Race’ takes place.
Once a year, Coopers Hill in Gloucestershire is a busy and chaotic spot. That location is where the annual ‘Cheese Rolling Race’ takes place.
As you might be able to guess, the event is all about chasing after a large 8 pound wheel of Double Gloucester cheese as it rolls down the hill.
This year’s event was recently held and like every year, some competitors were injured during the race.
One man was left with a broken wrist and another runner encountered a broken collarbone. The event is a physical one with people running and charging their way down the very steep hillside to chase after a tumbling block of cheese.
At times, runners lose their footing on the grassy terrain and even trip on fellow competitors. Fences are removed prior to the race with orange tape marking off the spectator area, and undergrowth is trimmed to lessen the dangers. The hill is also thoroughly examined for stones, but it seems the sheer competitiveness means people can easily get hurt.
The official ‘Cheese Rolling Race’ was banned back in 2009 due to the potential safety risks but given the popularity, locals have arranged unofficial events in the same spot each year since then.
The origin of the race dates back to sometime in the 1800s.
