Cheese Rolling Contest Returns to Gloucestershire Amid Cheers and Tumbles

Gloucestershire, England — Cheese enthusiasts gathered in Gloucestershire on May Bank Holiday Monday for the annual cheese-rolling competition at Cooper's Hill. Participants hurled themselves down the steep slope, chasing wheels of Double Gloucester cheese, a tradition believed to date back to the 1800s.

This year’s event saw Luke Briggs win one of the men’s races while dressed as Superman. First-time racer Ava Sender Logan, 20, from London, triumphed in the inaugural women’s competition despite admitting she didn’t care much for cheese. ‘It’s such a cool tradition,’ she said, though she didn’t recall much of her downhill tumble.

The contest requires competitors to chase a 3kg cheese wheel down a 200-yard hill, which can rocket to speeds of nearly 70 miles per hour. Medical teams were present after past injuries, and some participants were seen requiring assistance after their tumbles.

Hordes of spectators lined the site, which has historical roots in celebrating spring, with origins tracing back to ancient pagan customs. Tom Kopke from Munich won the opening men’s race for the second year in a row. ‘I’ve never felt better in my life,’ he remarked, adding that the dry conditions this year made the event more dangerous.

The event also honored two past champions, Izzy John and Steve Brain, with the first men’s race named after John, who died in 2015. Reports have suggested the race could be recognized officially as part of the UK’s heritage after public nominations to preserve cultural traditions were announced.

Despite safety concerns, including injuries in previous competitions, Assistant Chief Constable Arman Mathieson from Gloucestershire Police affirmed the event’s unique charm, stating they have ‘no desire to stop it.’ Participants joyfully donned costumes and shared the excitement of the beloved cheese chase.

With more than 3,000 spectators reportedly attending, the event continues to attract competitors globally, celebrating the delight and chaos that is the Cooper’s Hill Cheese Rolling contest.