Running Of The Bulls
Running of the Bulls
The Running of the Bulls is a Spanish tradition that began in the late 1500s. In the tradition, bulls are let loose on a closed course of a town's streets as people try to out run the bulls in front. Most famously, the running of the bulls is on the ninth day of the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona, however it is not exclusive to this city. It is performed in villages and town across Spain during the festival season. It also occurs in southern France, primarily Bayonne. This is not intended for professionals as are the bull fights; anyone may participate in the Running of the Bulls at the risk of injury. This custom originated to transport the bulls from off site corrals where they had spent the night to the bullring where they would be killed in the evening. To prove how brave they were, many young people would jump on the bulls.
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Harm Done In The Running Of The Bulls
Participating in the Running of the Bulls does not come without risk. Injuries are common to participant who may be trampled as well as to the bulls whose hooves do not grip poorly on the cobbled and paved surfaces. 13 people have been killed in the Running of the Bulls since 1924. A 22 year old American tourist became victim to the bulls in 1995 while visiting Spain. Most recently a Navarro man was killed in 2003 after he fell into a coma after the race was finished. More injuries occur now than during the origin of the race because of the participants who flock from all over the world to run from the powerful bulls. To prevent more injuries, organizers release guides in many languages to communicate safety tips.
Running Of The Bulls Rule
There are some rules to the Running of the Bulls to help keep the event as safe as possible. The first rule is that anyone under the age of 18 is not allowed to participate. Also, anyone drunk or under the influence of any drug is prohibited. The second is that no one is permitted over the police barriers. Next, no one is allowed to hide in dead angles or doorways throughout the course before the releasing of the bulls. Also, home and building owners must close all the doors and windows of those on the course. No objects that may impede the correct running of the Running of the Bulls is allowed. Do not where clothes or shoes that are inappropriate for the run. Next, distracting, mistreating, or grabbing the bulls is prohibited. Lastly, taking photographs from the streets without authorization is not allowed. Basically any action that impedes the Running of the Bulls is not allowed.
