First held in the mid 1970s, the tradition was born - as many are - in a pub over a pint of ale. Legend has it that two local farmers had made a bet about racing between pubs, having a drink at each. As the night continued, the bet grew, ending with a pledge to do so while carrying a hay bale.First held in the mid 1970s, the tradition was born - as many are - in a pub over a pint of ale. Legend has it that two local farmers had made a bet about racing between pubs, having a drink at each. As the night continued, the bet grew, ending with a pledge to do so while carrying a hay bale.
First held in the mid 1970s, the tradition was born - as many are - in a pub over a pint of ale. Legend has it that two local farmers had made a bet about racing between pubs, having a drink at each. As the night continued, the bet grew, ending with a pledge to do so while carrying a hay bale.

Oxenhope Charity Straw Race 2023: The best photographs from a quirky Yorkshire tradition on its 45th race day

Ruby Kitchen
By Ruby Kitchen
Published 2nd Jul 2023, 17:59 BST
Updated 2nd Jul 2023, 18:20 BST
A blustery finish in formidable conditions brought champions to a challenging summit.

The quirky tradition of the Oxenhope Charity Straw Race, seen every summer in the Pennine village near Keighley, is always held on the first Sunday in July.

For some, wielding hay bales for miles as the gusty winds blew, it proved more a slog than a saunter, and as they neared the uphill finish there was a certain slackening of pace.

James Hardisty, photographer for The Yorkshire Post, headed for the hills to catch these stunning pictures.

James Hardisty, photographer for The Yorkshire Post, headed for the hills to catch these stunning pictures.

Competitors persevered for the uphill climb towards the race finish

9. Determined efforts

Competitors persevered for the uphill climb towards the race finish Photo: James Hardisty

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Spirits were high as race day brought a promised carnival atmosphere

10. Carnival cheer

Spirits were high as race day brought a promised carnival atmosphere Photo: James Hardisty

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Teams of at least two can share the weight of a bale so long as they make the mandatory stops

11. Heavy load

Teams of at least two can share the weight of a bale so long as they make the mandatory stops Photo: James Hardisty

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One team, somewhat scantily clad for the cold, carried a handmade aeroplane complete with its own captain.

12. Captain aboard

One team, somewhat scantily clad for the cold, carried a handmade aeroplane complete with its own captain. Photo: James Hardisty

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