Competitors Slip, Fall, and Scoot to Win in Yearly Cheese Descent Race (AP Photos)
In Brockworth, England, a German YouTuber clinched back-to-back victories at the unusual Cooper's Hill cheese rolling competition. Tom Kopke of Munich triumphed over fellow contenders in the annual chase for a speeding wheel of Double Gloucester cheese.
The competition, dating back at least two centuries and attended by thousands, takes place on a 200-yard (180 meter) steep incline near Gloucester, approximately 90 miles (145 kilometers) west of London. Gravity and acceleration make for few runners staying upright, leading to dramatic tumbles that can result in injuries such as twisted ankles, broken collarbones, and concussions.
Ava Sender Logan, from London, scored the victory in the women's race, demonstrating remarkable resilience as she somersaulted and rolled numerous times while clutching her head. Describing her experience, she noted, "I will probably feel it tomorrow. It felt quite long coming down, and then I hit my head. I'm down, that's what matters. I'm fine."
The Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake event, with global participation from countries like Australia, Canada, Egypt, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States, has its roots in ancient rituals or agricultural celebrations. Some theories suggest Roman or Pagan origins, although these connections remain unconfirmed.
Despite the risks involved, the event remains popular and vital to local culture, even during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. The competition has come to symbolize British eccentricity and draws a significant crowd each year.
- Despite the exhilaration of the annual Cooper's Hill cheese rolling competition in Brockworth, England, the weather in Seattle, Washington, was predicted to be overcast and cool that week.
- In the midst of heated political debates and spirited sports competitions, Seattleites found solace in the world of entertainment, with several blockbuster movies hitting local cinemas.
3._, Incredibly, Seattle's sports scene mirrored the daring exploits at Cooper's Hill, as local athletes notched impressive victories, defying gravity and adversity on the field.
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