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Grasmere Games
Fun and games in the Lakes... traditional Cumberland sports in the arena at Grasmere.
Overview
Graceful pole vaulters, hardy fell runners and tights-clad wrestlers demonstrate their skill at the annual Grasmere Games. This Lakeland sporting extravaganza, established in the mid-19th century, was perfect newsreel fodder, with the stirring scenery adding to the appeal of the athletics. A wonderful view down into the valley shows the arena packed with spectators enjoying the displays of sporting prowess in the early September sunshine. Canine competitors get their chance too, in the annual hound race.
The games began with traditional Cumberland and Westmorland wrestling competitions at the Grasmere Sheep Fair, but by the 1870s had become the Annual Grasmere Lakeland Sports - an increasingly popular fixture in their own right. They have been held on the first Tuesday in September ever since, being suspended only during the years of WWI and WWII.
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