The Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event is one of the UK’s most thrilling and unusual traditions, attracting participants and spectators from all over the world. This year, German YouTuber Tom Kopke once again demonstrated remarkable courage and determination by winning the competition for the second consecutive year.
The event, held annually on the steep and dangerous slopes of Cooper’s Hill, is infamous for its high risk of injury and adrenaline-fueled races. Tom Kopke’s back-to-back victories have not only earned him a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese but also solidified his reputation as a fearless competitor willing to risk everything for the glory of winning.
The Thrill and Danger of Cheese Rolling
The Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event is far from a simple race. It’s a unique contest that involves participants chasing a 7-pound (approximately 3 kilograms) wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down Cooper’s Hill, one of the steepest hills in the UK. The hill’s challenging gradient turns what might seem like a straightforward chase into a chaotic, tumble-filled spectacle.
The cheese, once released, hurtles down the hill at incredible speed, with competitors scrambling and often falling in their attempt to be the first to cross the finish line and claim the prize.
The event’s danger is well-known, with numerous injuries occurring every year. This year, the conditions changed from the previous muddy terrain to a dry but more treacherous surface. The dry slope was “dangerous,” as Tom Kopke himself noted, and many competitors were hurt during the races. Despite the risks, the event draws dozens of competitors who are eager to prove their bravery and agility.
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Tom Kopke’s attitude towards the risk was bold. He said, “I risked my life for this. It’s my cheese—back to back.” His words reflect the intensity and passion behind the event. For many competitors, the race is more than just a sport; it’s a test of grit, stamina, and courage.
Cheese chasing champion two times in a row – what an incredible sporting achievement from German Tom Kopke who emerged victorious at the Cooper's Hill Cheese-Rolling and Wake in Gloucestershire for a second time.
— German Embassy London (@GermanEmbassy) May 27, 2025
"It's my cheese – back to back"pic.twitter.com/baFi1f4RXG
Kopke’s experience as a YouTuber with a large following under the name Tooleko also added an extra layer of pressure and excitement. With 366,000 subscribers watching, his performance was not just about winning cheese but also about delivering thrilling content to his audience.
Stories from the Hill: Competitors and Spectators
The Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event is not just about the winners; it’s about the community, the stories, and the spectacle that unfold on Cooper’s Hill. This year, seven races were held, including two memorial races in honor of past winners who have passed away. The event attracts a wide range of participants, from seasoned veterans to first-time racers, all drawn by the unique tradition and the adrenaline rush.
One memorable moment came from Luke Preece, a local from Gloucester who won the second men’s race. Preece ran down the hill dressed as Superman, adding a playful and colorful twist to the competition. His enthusiasm and joy after winning were palpable as he exclaimed how “amazing” and “buzzed” he felt. This enthusiasm is shared by many competitors who see the event as a celebration of local culture and camaraderie, despite its dangerous reputation.
The women’s race was won by Ava Sender Logan, a 20-year-old university student from London. Ava participated in the event for the first time and described the experience as a mix of tradition, physical challenge, and a bit of pain—she even hit her head during the race. Despite not being a cheese fan, Ava was proud of her achievement, highlighting the communal spirit and the personal satisfaction that comes with competing in such a unique event.
The final men’s race saw Byron Smith from New Zealand take first place after coming second the previous year. Smith’s determination and speed enabled him to improve on his prior performance, showing the competitive nature of the event and how experience can make a difference on the steep slopes of Cooper’s Hill.
Spectators also play a crucial role in the event’s atmosphere. Thousands gathered to watch the races, lining the hill at the top, middle, and bottom. Their excitement and support add to the electric energy that makes cheese rolling a standout event. However, the large crowds and the dangerous nature of the races do pose challenges for local authorities, including a strain on the county’s ambulance services, as injuries are common.
Tom Kopke: More than Just a Winner
Tom Kopke’s victory is impressive not only for his athleticism but also for his role as a YouTuber and content creator. Known as Tooleko on YouTube, Kopke has a dedicated following of over 360,000 subscribers who eagerly watch his videos documenting his exploits and adventures. Winning the Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event twice in a row has brought him significant attention both on the hill and online.
Kopke’s approach to the race was described as shutting off his brain and going all in, demonstrating a mindset of fearless determination. The physical toll is evident from his appearance post-race, with wounds and dirt marking the intense battle he fought down the hill. Yet, his willingness to push through the pain reflects the spirit of competitors who view the event as a challenge worth enduring.
His comments about others at the top trying to steal his title show the competitive nature of the event and his confidence in his own abilities. For Kopke, winning the cheese is not just a prize but a symbol of achievement and resilience. The fact that he has risked injury and still come out victorious highlights the event’s blend of danger, fun, and tradition.
Beyond the competition, Kopke’s participation brings a modern twist to this ancient tradition. Through his YouTube channel, he shares the thrills and spills of cheese rolling with a global audience, helping to keep the event alive in popular culture and inspiring others to take part or at least appreciate the spectacle.
The Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event is a thrilling tradition that continues to captivate participants and spectators alike. Tom Kopke’s back-to-back victories have added a new chapter to the event’s storied history, demonstrating the passion, skill, and courage required to win on the treacherous slopes of Cooper’s Hill. His status as a YouTuber has helped to elevate the event’s profile, bringing the excitement and danger of cheese rolling to a wider audience.
With competitors like Luke Preece, Ava Sender Logan, and Byron Smith also making their mark, the event remains a vibrant mix of athleticism, community spirit, and quirky tradition. While injuries and risks are part and parcel of the race, the determination and enthusiasm of those involved ensure that the Gloucestershire cheese-rolling event will continue to be a beloved spectacle for years to come.
Tom Kopke’s words after the race—“I worked for this. I risked my life for this. It’s my cheese—back to back”—capture the essence of what makes this event so unique. It’s not just about chasing cheese down a hill; it’s about pushing limits, embracing tradition, and celebrating the thrill of competition in the face of danger.