German Cheese-Rolling Champion Claims Victory Once Again.
For the second consecutive year, German competitor Tom Kopke emerged victorious at the annual Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event, declaring he "risked his life" to defend his title.
Kopke, 23, who creates content for his 366,000 YouTube subscribers under the name Tooleko, was among dozens of thrill-seekers who raced down the steep slopes of Cooper's Hill in pursuit of a 7lb (3kg) wheel of Double Gloucester cheese.
“Last year, the hill was muddy. This year, it was dry and dangerous—people got injured,” he said after his win. Like many, Kopke didn’t escape unscathed. “It was crazy. This year was different. I shut off my brain and went for it.”
Despite warnings from fellow racers who vowed to dethrone him, Kopke maintained his dominance: “All the people at the top said they were going to steal my title, but this is mine. I worked for this. I risked my life for this. It’s my cheese—back to back.”
The event, which is notorious for its steep terrain and frequent injuries, drew thousands of spectators who lined the hill from top to bottom. One viewer from Kopke’s race was taken to hospital, and local authorities reiterated concerns over the event’s strain on emergency services.
A total of seven races took place, including two held in memory of former champions who have passed away.
The second men’s race saw Luke Preece from Gloucester claim victory while dressed as Superman. “I’m absolutely buzzed. Amazing… the adrenaline,” he said. “My dad did it—I can’t believe it.”
In the women’s race, 20-year-old university student Ava Sender Logan from London took the win on her first try. “It felt quite long coming down and then I hit my head,” she said. “I’m down—that’s what matters.” When asked about her prize, she admitted, “I don’t like cheese.”
New Zealander Byron Smith, 33, who finished second last year, won the final men’s downhill race. “It feels great,” he said. “I ran as fast as I could and tried to get back up, and this year I did.”
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