One to be ready,
two to be steady,
three to prepare
and four to be off!
This Virtual cache marks the local custom of cheese-rolling at Cooper's Hill. An annual event is held which sees contestants barreling down a 1:2 gradient, 180m long hill to snatch the coveted prize: a 4kg wheel of Double Gloucester cheese!
The Cheese Roll
The first written evidence of Cheese Rolling was found in a message to the Gloucester Town Crier in 1826, but depending on who you speak to there are many theories about the origins of what has now become one of the world's most unusual sports. These days, it's a "take part at your own peril" event in which the following tactics are used in order to dissuade people from attending (see photo!):
The Cache
From the suggested parking coordinates, the path to the Virtual cache is well marked with occasional hilly sections. Be prepared with good footwear, especially in winter where the trails can get quite muddy.
Due to erosion, it is strongly advised you stay well back from the fence at the top of the hill near the posted coordinates. However, if you can't resist a further peek--and marvel at the nerve of past hill tumblers--you do so at your own risk. Please take care.
To log this Virtual Cache:
- In your log, you must post a photo at the trail marker found at the posted coordinates. You do not have to be in the photo but it must show something that makes it unique to you. Bonus points, however, if you trek up the hill and pose with some cheese!
- Please do not message the CO with your pictures. If your photo is not attached to a log, it could result in your find being deleted. If you are posting on behalf of a group, please indicate who your group members are.
- [Optional] To keep with the cheese theme, please include in your log your favourite kind of cheese. If you're vegan or lactose intolerant, tell me about your favourite cheese alternatives. If you're not a cheese lover...what foodstuff would YOU be willing to tumble down the hill for??
Virtual Rewards 3.0 - 2022-2023
This Virtual Cache is part of a limited release of Virtuals created between March 1, 2022 and March 1, 2023. Only 4,000 cache owners were given the opportunity to hide a Virtual Cache. Learn more about Virtual Rewards 3.0 on the Geocaching Blog.