The Gurning Contest at the Egremont Crab Fair, dating back to 1267, features contorted facial expressions in a quirky competition. Famous gurners like Peter Jackman, Tommy Mattinson, and Ady Zivelonghi showcase their unique skills, attracting participants and spectators from far and wide.
This event celebrates the art of gurning with amusing and exceptional facial expressions, offering a fun glimpse into a world of unique talents and competitions.
Egremont Crab Fair
The Crab Fair in Egremont is a historic event dating back to 1267. It features traditional activities and the famous World Gurning Competition, where participants distort their faces through a horse collar.
The fair, held on the third Saturday in September, originated from the Lord of Egremont’s gift of crab apples to the townspeople. Despite uncertain origins, the competition has evolved over time, drawing participants and spectators.
Established as a charitable institution in 1884, the fair also supports the less fortunate and concludes with lively evening celebrations.
The World Gurning Championships
The World Gurning Championships take place at the Egremont Crab Fair in the Lake District. Participants gather to showcase their contorted and amusing facial expressions in this annual event established in 1267.
Alongside gurning, the fair offers activities like Cumberland wrestling, Wheelbarrow racing, pipe smoking, and greasy pole climbing, adding to the event’s charm and tradition.
The championships celebrate the art of gurning and the freedom of expression in a uniquely quirky way.
Rules
In a traditional gurn competition, participants contort their faces by jutting out their lower jaw upwards while ensuring their upper lip is concealed by the lower lip. To add to the challenge, contestants are required to wear a sizable horse collar during the gurning routine. The guidelines are quite relaxed, with the only restrictions being on the use of makeup while permitting the use of false teeth.
Originating as a playful form of amusement, Gurning Sport now upholds a set of precise rules and regulations governing the competitive contortion of facial expressions. These rules guarantee a fair and entertaining competition for all participants, allowing them to express themselves freely while adhering to the following guidelines:
| Gurning Sport Rules | Other Sports Rules |
|---|---|
| 1. Authenticity: Participants must maintain genuine and authentic facial expressions throughout their performance, avoiding any artificial or exaggerated movements. | Similar to maintaining proper form and technique in gymnastics. |
| 2. Creativity: Contestants are encouraged to showcase their creativity by experimenting with different facial contortions and expressions, adding a personal touch to their performance. | Comparable to artistic expression in figure skating routines. |
| 3. Sportsmanship: Respect and sportsmanship are fundamental aspects of Gurning Sport. Participants are expected to show respect towards their fellow competitors, judges, and the audience, creating a positive and inclusive environment. | Similar to the code of conduct and fair play observed in various sports like soccer and basketball. |
Famous Gurners
Peter Jackman, Tommy Mattinson, and Ady Zivelonghi are renowned gurners, each known for their unique contorted facial expressions and exceptional skills.
Their participation in gurning contests adds excitement and prestige to the competitive world, captivating audiences with their entertaining abilities.
Peter Jackman
Peter Jackman, known for his iconic ‘Bela Lugosi’ face inspired by Count Dracula, dominated the world of gurning with three consecutive world titles from 1996 to 1998.
In a strategic move, he had his teeth removed to gain an advantage over competitor Tommy Mattinson in 1999, leading to a successful comeback in 2000.
Despite being surpassed by Mattinson, who has won 16 times, including 13 victories after 2000, Jackman’s adaptability and dedication to gurning have solidified his place as a respected figure in the community.
Tommy Mattinson
Tommy Mattinson, a renowned gurner from Aspatria, holds the Guinness World Record for gurning and has exceeded his father’s previous record with ten world championships.
He impressed the Queen with his gurning skills during her visit to Cumbria in 2008, describing his expression as a mix of an alien and a wolf man.
Despite the physical strain, including a sore head and aching neck muscles, he remains devoted to perfecting his craft.
His dedication to gurning is evident through his consistent participation and drive to excel, showcasing his passion for this unique and entertaining art form.
Ady Zivelonghi
Ady Zivelonghi, hailing from Coventry, became a renowned gurner by defeating Tommy Mattinson on his 13th attempt.
His winning gurning face, inspired by the ‘Predator’ creature from an Arnold Schwarzenegger film, showcased his unique and formidable style.
