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The Wacky World of Competitive Cheese Rolling

CREATED BY SARAH JANE BLACK & CLAIRE BUTCHER
Published: 15/07/2024 @ 16:05PM

From its humble beginnings in the UK to its growing popularity around the world, competitive cheese rolling has captured the hearts and minds of many. This quirky sport involves chasing a wheel of cheese down a steep hill, and while it may sound absurd, it has a rich history and a set of rules that make it a serious competition ...

Competitive cheese rolling may seem like a made-up sport, but it is very much a real and beloved tradition in the UK. It takes place every year on the last Monday of May in the village of Brockworth, Gloucestershire. The event attracts thousands of spectators and participants from all over the world, all eager to witness or take part in this wacky competition.

The origins of cheese rolling can be
traced back to the 1800s

It is believed that the tradition started as a pagan ritual to celebrate the arrival of spring. The cheese was rolled down the hill to represent the sun rolling down the winter months, and the first person to catch it would be blessed with a year of good luck.

Over time, the ritual evolved into a competition, with a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese being used as the prize. The cheese, which can weigh up to 9 pounds, is rolled down the steep hill, and participants race after it, often tumbling and falling along the way. The first person to reach the bottom of the hill wins the cheese and is declared the champion.

While the concept of chasing a cheese down a hill may seem simple, there are actually strict rules in place to ensure the safety of participants. The cheese must be rolled from the top of Cooper's Hill, which has a gradient of 1:2. The cheese must also reach the bottom of the hill before anyone can start chasing it. If the cheese is caught before it reaches the bottom, the person who caught it is declared the winner.

Competitors are also required to sign a waiver before taking part, as the steep and uneven terrain can lead to injuries. In fact, the event has gained a reputation for being dangerous, with numerous broken bones and other injuries reported over the years. However, this does not deter the brave and determined participants who are willing to risk it all for a chance at glory.

The cheese rolling competition is not just
for the brave and daring

There are different categories for men, women, and children. There is also a separate race for the children, where they chase a smaller wheel of cheese down the hill. This allows everyone to participate and have a chance at winning the coveted cheese.

The winner of the main event is not the only one who gets to take home a wheel of cheese. The second and third place finishers also receive a prize, as well as the person who wins the uphill race. This race is for those who do not want to risk tumbling down the hill and involves running up the hill while carrying a wheel of cheese.

The absurdity of competitive cheese rolling is what makes it so entertaining and unique. It has gained international attention, with similar events being held in countries such as Canada, the US, and Australia. In fact, the annual cheese rolling event in Whistler, Canada, has become so popular that it attracts thousands of participants and spectators each year.

Competitive cheese rolling may seem like
a bizarre and ridiculous sport

But it certainly has a rich history and a dedicated following. It has stood the test of time and continues to attract people from all over the world who are willing to chase a wheel of cheese down a steep hill for a chance at glory. So, if you ever find yourself in the UK during the last Monday of May, be sure to check out one of these wacky and exciting events.

They're sure to leave you rolling with laughter.

Until next time ...

SARAH JANE BLACK & CLAIRE BUTCHER
Call us: 0238 001 5776

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