Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race

Hundreds take part in Easter coal-carrying race

In a vibrant West Yorkshire Easter tradition, hundreds of participants tested their physical endurance during the annual World Coal Carrying Championships. The event, held in Gawthorpe near Ossett, attracted 240 competitors who transported sacks of coal across a 3,320ft (approximately 1,000m) stretch. Men raced with 7st 12lb (50kg) bags, while women carried 3st 2lb (20kg) loads from the Royal Oak pub to the village’s Maypole Green.

Craig Heppenstall, a repeat entrant, secured his over-40s world champion title once again this year. “Each year feels like the weight increases. When you first pick it up, you think, ‘Why am I doing this?’ But by the end, you’re fully committed,” he remarked. The race, a staple on Easter Monday, began as casual conversation among local men in a pub, one of whom was a coal merchant. Since its inception in 1963, the event has grown from a local joke to a global draw, with international competitors and large crowds gathering to witness the challenging uphill course.

Race organizer Duncan Smith highlighted the day’s success, noting, “It was a brilliant day with perfect weather, after three years of relentless rain.” Tickets for this year’s race sold out rapidly, with 165 children also joining in for fun runs. Spectator Yazmin Azad praised the event’s role in uniting the community. “It’s incredible. This tradition, rooted in decades of history, keeps getting more exciting every year,” she said. “Everyone comes together, races, and shares the energy—it’s pure joy.”

“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.”

Listen to highlights from West Yorkshire on BBC Sounds and catch up with the latest episode of Look North for more details.