Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race
Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race
Every year, the village of Gawthorpe near Ossett hosts an unusual Easter tradition that tests participants’ physical endurance. This year, over 200 individuals competed in the World Coal Carrying Championships, transporting sacks of coal across a 3,320ft (about 1,000m) course. Men carried 7st 12lb (50kg) bags, while women moved 3st 2lb (20kg) loads from the Royal Oak pub to the village’s Maypole Green.
A legacy born from casual conversation
The race traces its roots to a lighthearted exchange in a local pub in 1963. A coal merchant’s suggestion sparked the idea, which soon evolved into a competitive event. Now, the race draws global entrants and draws large crowds to watch the challenging uphill route.
“It feels like it gets heavier each year. When you put it on you’re like, ‘Why am I doing this?’ And then you can really feel it on your legs,” said Craig Heppenstall, who secured his over-40s world champion title once again. Heppenstall narrowly missed matching the world record time of four minutes and 57 seconds, crediting the spectators’ support for his performance. “They shout ‘Come on, keep that momentum. You’re nearly there,’ and it makes you want to see that finish line… The crowds cheer and shout your name, it’s fantastic,” he added.
Race organizer Duncan Smith highlighted the event’s resilience, noting it was a “brilliant day with fantastic weather” after three years of relentless rain. Tickets for this year’s race sold out quickly, with 165 children also joining fun runs as part of the festivities. Yazmin Azad, a spectator, emphasized the race’s role in fostering community spirit. “It’s amazing. It’s a tradition that’s dated back so many years, and it just gets bigger and better every single year,” she said. “Everyone gets together, everyone’s racing. It’s an adrenaline rush and everyone loves it.”
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