How One Bold Kenyan in Britain Could Make Headlines With England's Strangest Tradition

Kenyans living in the UK are being encouraged to take part in England's annual World Gurning Championships, an event that welcomes competitors from around the world without residency or qualification requirements.

Kenya has earned recognition for several Guinness World Records in recent years, particularly through achievements in endurance and environmental conservation. Environmental activist Truphena Muthoni attracted national recognition after hugging a tree for 72 hours in Nyeri County, while Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott planted more than 23,000 trees in a single day at Kessup Forest. Both later received Head of State Commendations for their achievements.

Attention has now turned to a different form of competition in the UK. Each September, the town of Egremont in West Cumbria stages the World Gurning Championships as part of a harvest festival that dates back to 1267.

The competition requires participants to place their heads through a leather horse collar, known locally as a braffin, and pull the most exaggerated facial expression possible. Over the years, the event has produced notable champions, including Tommy Mattinson, who has won the men's title a record 19 times, and Anne Woods, the most successful female competitor. International entrants have also competed, including American Marie Quinn, who finished second in 1974.

The championships are open to anyone and do not require previous experience or local residency. Kenyans based in cities such as London or Birmingham could travel to Cumbria to compete alongside participants from the UK and overseas.

The festival also includes traditional events such as Cumberland wrestling, greasy pole climbing, parades and apple-throwing competitions. While the contest is light-hearted, experienced competitors rely on exceptional facial flexibility, and local folklore suggests that missing teeth may provide an advantage.

Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, who heads the Ministry of Gender and Culture, has encouraged Kenyans to use international platforms to promote the country's identity and culture. Supporters of diaspora participation say taking part in the championships would broaden Kenya's international presence beyond sport and environmental initiatives.

A Kenyan participant would also demonstrate engagement with local traditions while representing the country's diaspora community. Such participation could generate interest in both Kenya and the UK and highlight the willingness of Kenyans abroad to take part in cultural events beyond their own communities.

Regular Kenyan participation in the championships could also encourage greater cultural exchange between Kenya and the UK. While the two countries maintain strong ties through trade and diplomacy, community events such as the World Gurning Championships provide another opportunity for people to share traditions and experiences.

For any Kenyan who chooses to compete this September, the event would offer an opportunity to take part in one of England's oldest traditions while introducing a Kenyan presence to an unusual international competition.