German YouTuber Tom Kopke won the men's downhill cheese-rolling race during the annual Gloucester Cheese-Rolling competition in Gloucestershire, England [1], [2], [3].
The victory marks a rare win for an international participant in a contest known for its steep terrain and local dominance. The event attracts thrill-seekers from across the globe to compete in one of the most dangerous traditional races in the United Kingdom [1], [2].
Kopke, 24, secured the win by beating Chris Anderson [3]. Anderson entered the race as a Guinness World Record holder, making Kopke's victory a significant upset in the competition's history [3].
Reports indicate the race took place on a Monday [1]. While some records associate the event with May 26, 2025 [2], the competition remains a centerpiece of regional culture in Gloucestershire [1], [3].
Participants in the race chase a large wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down a steep hill. Because the cheese can reach high speeds, runners often tumble and roll down the incline in an attempt to reach the bottom first [1], [2].
The competition is an iconic annual tradition that relies on the bravery of participants who face the risk of injury for the prestige of the win [1], [2].
“Tom Kopke defeated Guinness World Record holder Chris Anderson”
The win by a non-local YouTuber highlights the growing international appeal of niche traditional sports. By defeating a record-holder like Chris Anderson, Kopke demonstrates that the event's unpredictability allows outsiders to disrupt established local hierarchies of skill and experience.
