New Zealander Wins Chaotic Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling Race

The annual Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling, a centuries-old tradition held in Gloucestershire, England, attracted over 5,000 participants this year. The event, known for its chaotic nature and frequent injuries, saw a thrilling victory by Byron Smith, a 33-year-old New Zealander sporting a Sevilla FC jersey. "It feels great," Smith exclaimed after his win, adding, "I ran last year and came second. Tom Kopke [the overall winner] beat me. He's a really quick guy, and I didn't want to race him again, so I won in the third race." The event, a steep downhill chase after a round of Double Gloucester cheese, resulted in numerous tumbles and injuries, showcasing the inherent risks involved. Despite the inherent danger, as evidenced by a sign stating "Cheese Rolling is a Dangerous Activity," participants continue to flock to the event each year, underscoring its enduring appeal.