Posted on 03/04/2003 6:57:50 AM PST by ewing
Tradidion declares that this race first run in the year 1445, pancakes at the time being a popular dish and recieving the royal favour.
It was run on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Lent, and the whole day was given over to a festival of celebrations and pastimes, which formed a part of the 'last fling' celebrations. (Mardi Gras)
One story tells us of a harrassed housewife, hearing the shriving bell, dashing off to the Church still clutching her frying pan containing a pancake. (and the international race was born)
Since then Olney has been invaded every Shrove Tuesday by an ever increasing number of visitors from all parts of the country and the world at large. It is now described as Buckingham's most famous local custom and has been featured in films, radio, television, and the national press every year since.
In 1950 the race became an international event. A challenge was recieved from the town of Liberal, KS United States where after seeing press photographs of the race at Olney, England they concieved the idea of starting a similiar race.
Olney readily accepted the challenge and in the spirit of international goodwill and friendship, the two towns now compete annually and prizes are exchanged. The race is run on a timed basis and the winner is declared after the times are compared through a transatlantic phone call.
Important representatives from America have been present for the race in Olney, as have representatives from Olney have been present in the States
(Excerpt) Read more at parishes.oxford.anglican.org ...
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