Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race

Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race

Every Easter Monday, the village of Gawthorpe near Ossett hosts a unique tradition that tests participants’ physical endurance. This year, over 240 competitors braved the challenge of hauling sacks of coal across a course spanning 3,320 feet (approximately 1,000 meters). Men carried 7st 12lb (50kg) bags, while women transported lighter 3st 2lb (20kg) sacks, from the Royal Oak pub to the village’s Maypole Green.

The event traces its roots to a casual conversation in a local pub in 1963, sparked by a coal merchant. What began as a lighthearted idea has since grown into a globally recognized competition, drawing international entrants and crowds eager to watch the uphill spectacle. This year’s race saw record-breaking demand, with tickets selling out within hours and 165 children joining fun runs as part of the festivities.

“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 successfully defended his title in the over-40s category. Heppenstall fell just one second short of matching the world record time of four minutes and 57 seconds for his group.

Race organizer Duncan Smith praised the day as “a brilliant event with fantastic weather,” contrasting it with the previous three years of relentless rain. Spectators play a vital role in keeping participants motivated, as Heppenstall highlighted. “It just keeps you propelling. 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.

Spectator Yazmin Azad noted the event’s role in uniting the community. “It’s amazing. 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.” The race remains a testament to the enduring spirit of local heritage and competitive camaraderie.

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