The first mention of cheese rolls in Gloucester dates back to 1826, but the tradition probably goes back many centuries. In 2010, the organized competitions were officially stopped due to the fact that too many people were injured. Since then, the event has “spontaneously” returned every year.

Matt Crolla, one of the guys who came home with a piece of cheese, was asked about his readiness after the race. “I don’t think you can practice with this. You just have to be stupid.”