Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race
Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race
Every year, on Easter Monday, the village of Gawthorpe near Ossett hosts a unique tradition that tests participants’ endurance. This year, 240 competitors braved the 3,320ft (approximately 1,000m) course, carrying sacks of coal from the Royal Oak pub to Maypole Green. Men were tasked with moving 7st 12lb (50kg) loads, while women carried 3st 2lb (20kg) sacks, all in a spirited display of physical effort.
A quirky legacy rooted in local banter
The event traces its origins to a casual exchange in a pub back in 1963. One of the men involved was a coal merchant, whose suggestion sparked what has since grown into a globally recognized competition. Over the decades, the race has expanded, drawing international entrants and drawing large crowds to witness the challenging uphill journey.
“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 claimed his over-40s world champion title for the second consecutive year. He narrowly missed matching the world record of four minutes and 57 seconds, attributing his success to the energetic support from spectators.
Yazmin Azad, a spectator, highlighted the event’s role in fostering community bonds. “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 remarked. “Everyone gets together, everyone’s racing. It’s an adrenaline rush and everyone loves it.”
Duncan Smith, the race organizer, noted the positive turnout despite recent weather challenges. “It’s been a brilliant day with fantastic weather, after three years when it’s absolutely bucketed down with rain,” he shared. The event sold out swiftly, with 165 children also joining in on fun runs as part of the festivities.
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