Bognor Birdman Competition
Competitors build human-powered flying machines and launch them off the end of Bognor Regis pier in an attempt to fly. No engines allowed. Most crash spectacularly into the sea. Categories include 'Traditional Birdman', 'King of the Air', and 'Cosmic Catapult' for teams. The longest flight ever was 104 metres.
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Cooper's Hill Cheese Rolling
Contestants chase a 9lb wheel of Double Gloucester cheese down the near-vertical 200-yard Cooper's Hill. The first person over the finish line at the bottom wins the cheese. Expect broken ankles, bruises, and paramedics. This is the undisputed king of British absurdity.
competitionWorld Bog Snorkelling Championships
Competitors in full snorkel gear swim two lengths of a 60-yard peat bog trench cut through Waen Rhydd bog. No conventional swimming strokes allowed — just flippers and a snorkel. The world record is around 1 minute 18 seconds. Wales's finest contribution to aquatic absurdity.
competitionWorld Worm Charming Championships
Competitors use vibrations (stamping, gardening forks, or specially tuned 'worm-charming' instruments) to coax earthworms to the surface of a designated plot. No digging allowed. The record is over 500 worms in 30 minutes. It's part of the Willaston Fete and draws international competitors.