Gladiators star Jodie Ounsley was only three years old when she watched in awe as her dad trudged through the garden with an enormous sack of coal slung over his shoulders. Little did she know that it was part of his training for the annual World Coal Carrying Championships, but that did not stop her curiosity. Eager to join in, she grabbed a sack of carrots instead and sprinted around the kitchen - her own mini version of the challenge. Having won the children's race five times at the West Yorkshire event, the former rugby union player is now setting her sights on the women's event. Monday's event in Gawthorpe, near Ossett, sees runners haul sacks of coal across a distance of 3,320ft (1,012m). Traditionally, men carried 7st 12lb (50kg) sacks of coal and women carried 3st 2lb (20kg) from the Royal Oak pub to the village's Maypole Green. Jodie, known to many as Fury for her role on the BBC One show Gladiators, is looking forward to the challenge, albeit a little apprehensively. "I'm just thinking 'what am I getting myself into?'," the 24-year-old says. "You're uncomfortable straight away because you've got this awkward bag of coal on you, you've got your arms up and try running. "I think you take for granted when you're running, you can use your arms for momentum, but then having them up here, it's just awkward." She adds: "Basically, it's just whoever can cope with being uncomfortable for the longest." Two weeks ago the former England Sevens player set a new Guinness World Record at Thornes Park Athletic Stadium in Wakefield, running 50m while carrying a bag of coal in just 8.06 seconds. Despite her success and sporting background, she says Monday's challenge would be about endurance and much more of a "mental battle". "With the Guinness World Record, that's a flat out dash, run as fast as you can - and that's what I'm most suited to, I'm more explosive and sort of power-related. "I've had to do a lot more training to get in a good position to do well [in the championships], which I've absolutely loved because it's challenged me." Jodieattended the event in 2024 as a spectatorto support her father Phil, a former winner of the men's open race in 2007. At the time, she said she hoped to return to take part herself. When asked which Gladiator she would like to see attempt the race, she says: "I'd love to see, Jamie, who's known as Giant. "He's just an absolute unit, it would just be amazing for kids to see him powering up that hill." She adds: "It's such a unique event. You're literally running with a sack of coal on your shoulders, it's just so bizarre. "But the feeling you get from it, I'd love for anyone to experience that." As part of the race, Jodie is raising funds for The Elizabeth Foundation, which provides education services for babies and preschool children with all degrees of deafness. Jodie, who is profoundly deaf and was fitted with a cochlear implant at a young age, credits their support for shaping who she is today. The charity's deputy CEO, Karen Paine BEM, says they are proud Jodie - now their patron - will be taking part in this year's championship and she will be "cheering her on every step of the way". "As our patron, Jodie – along with her family – has been giving back to the charity for many years, helping us support even more families with young deaf children across the UK, including those in Yorkshire," she says. "She really is a true role model –for deaf individuals of any age, and most definitely for The Elizabeth Foundation's deaf children, parents, alumni, volunteers and staff." Jodie's dad Phil will not be competing this year - it is his turn to watch his daughter from the side lines, as she trades that bag of carrots for the real deal. Listen to highlights fromWest Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latestepisode of Look North.
Gladiator Fury takes on coal carrying championship
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Jodie Ounsley Prepares for World Coal Carrying Championships"
Bbc News
8.5
TruthLens AI Summary
Jodie Ounsley, known for her role as Fury on the BBC One show Gladiators, is set to compete in the upcoming World Coal Carrying Championships, a unique event that tests endurance and strength. This competition, taking place in Gawthorpe, near Ossett, requires participants to haul sacks of coal over a distance of 3,320 feet. Ounsley, who has a rich history with the event, having won the children's race five times, is now transitioning to the women's category. Traditionally, men carry a hefty 50 kg sack, while women carry a lighter 20 kg sack, and Jodie reflects on the challenges that come with this peculiar sport. She admits feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension as she prepares for the race, noting how the awkwardness of carrying the coal bag affects her ability to run effectively. Ounsley describes the competition as a test of mental fortitude, emphasizing that it is not just about physical strength but also about enduring discomfort for the longest time during the race.
In addition to her personal challenge, Jodie is also raising funds for The Elizabeth Foundation, a charity that provides support and education for young children with hearing impairments. Having been profoundly deaf herself and benefitting from a cochlear implant, Ounsley is passionate about giving back to the community that helped her. The charity’s deputy CEO has expressed pride in Jodie’s participation, highlighting her role as a patron and a role model for deaf children. While her father, Phil, a former winner of the men's race in 2007, will be cheering from the sidelines this year, Jodie is ready to embrace the challenge ahead. She hopes that her participation will inspire others, particularly young children, to pursue their dreams and face their own challenges, no matter how unique they may be. The event promises to be a remarkable blend of community spirit, personal achievement, and charitable support, showcasing Jodie's dedication to both sport and advocacy for the deaf community.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights the journey of Jodie Ounsley, a former rugby player and a participant in the World Coal Carrying Championships, revealing her personal connection to the sport and the physical challenges involved.
Purpose of the Article
The primary aim seems to be to promote the quirky and traditional event of coal carrying while also showcasing Ounsley's transition from a children’s competitor to an adult participant. By focusing on her past and her achievements, the article aims to create a narrative of perseverance and local culture.
Public Perception
This piece is likely intended to foster a sense of community and pride in local traditions. By featuring a known personality like Ounsley, it may also seek to inspire others to participate in or attend similar events, thus generating interest and support for local athletic competitions.
Hidden Agendas
While the article focuses on a light-hearted topic, it could also serve to distract from more serious issues, such as ongoing discussions about coal usage and environmental concerns. However, the tone remains upbeat, suggesting that the intent is more about promoting local culture than masking any deeper issues.
Manipulative Elements
The story does not overtly manipulate but employs a feel-good narrative that could be seen as a way to divert attention from contentious topics like fossil fuels. The context of coal carrying might also inadvertently romanticize a profession that has significant environmental implications.
Truthfulness of the Content
The information presented appears factual, detailing Ounsley's personal history and her participation in a specific event. It provides measurable aspects such as the weight of the coal sacks and the distance of the race, which adds to the credibility.
Cultural Implications
By emphasizing a traditional competition, the article taps into themes of endurance and community spirit. It may resonate particularly well with those who value local heritage and sporting events, appealing to a demographic that appreciates both athleticism and cultural festivities.
Economic and Social Impact
While the immediate effect on the economy may be minimal, promoting local events like this can contribute to tourism and community engagement. A successful event can enhance local businesses and foster a sense of unity among residents.
Support Base
The narrative likely appeals to sports enthusiasts, fans of local culture, and individuals interested in unique traditions. It creates a connection with those who may have participated in similar events or have a background in physical sports.
Market Influence
This article probably does not have a direct impact on stock markets or global trading. However, it could indirectly support local businesses associated with the event, such as pubs and shops in Gawthorpe.
Global Context
While the story doesn't engage with larger geopolitical issues, it could subtly reflect ongoing discussions around energy use and environmental sustainability by highlighting a traditional coal-related event.
Use of AI
There is no clear indication that AI was utilized in the article's writing. If AI were involved, it might have been in generating a structured narrative that emphasizes community and tradition, aligning with the article's positive tone. However, the human element of storytelling in Ounsley's journey adds a personal touch that AI might struggle to replicate effectively.
Conclusion
Overall, the article presents a lighthearted and community-focused story that emphasizes local culture and personal achievement. While it may gloss over broader issues related to coal usage, its focus on tradition and physical endurance resonates positively with audiences. The credibility of the content is strong, supported by factual details and personal anecdotes.