The annual World Nettle Eating Championships is taking place this year in Dorset, at the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm in Waytown. Contestants from all corners of the globe have gathered to compete for the title of world champion. To make it through the grueling 30-minute contest, participants must consume as many stinging nettle leaves as possible before their empty stalks are counted. To ease the pain, they are given cider to wash down the nettles.
Bethan Hodges, last year’s women’s champion, will be back to defend her crown after consuming an impressive 60 feet of nettles in the previous competition. Despite enduring stings on her hands and in her mouth, Bethan is determined to hold onto her crown. Another participant, Rob Casey, has also shared his strategy for eating the nettles without too much discomfort, emphasizing the importance of folding and moistening the leaves.
The tradition of this quirky event dates back to the 1980s and was previously held at a local pub in Bridport. Ryan Strong, the current organizer, is committed to preserving this unique competition by hosting it at the Dorset Nectar Cider Farm. With participants coming from far and wide to participate, this contest continues to captivate audiences and test the resilience of those brave enough to take on the challenge.
Overall, this competition is a unique testament to human endurance and determination. Despite facing temporary pain from stinging nettles, participants are willing to push themselves to become world champions.
