PAMPLONA, Spain (AP) – During a chaotic bull run at Spain's San Fermin festival on Saturday, a runner suffered a serious injury when he was gored in the face. This incident occurred amidst a thrilling yet dangerous atmosphere as six bulls and their accompanying steers charged through a narrow street packed with excited revelers in Pamplona.
The bull run, which lasted approximately two and a half minutes and covered 875 meters (957 yards), was fraught with danger as the massive bulls knocked down participants, causing several injuries. In total, twelve people required medical assistance for various injuries, according to reports from the University of Navarra Hospital. The scene was chaotic, with stumbling runners contributing to multiple falls and pileups as the bulls barreled through the crowd.
At one point during the run, a black bull broke away from the pack early and collided with a group of runners, notably injuring one individual in the side of the face with its horn. It remains uncertain whether this incident was the direct cause of the facial goring. The sheer size and speed of the bulls, combined with the excitement of the participants, contributed to the overall mayhem of the event.
Many runners seemed oblivious to the danger right behind them, as bulls were close enough to push them aside instead of attempting to gore them. The complexity of the event arises from a mix of seasoned locals and inexperienced tourists; this year’s festival marked the fifth of its eight-day duration, drawing a large number of both groups.
The San Fermin festival, held annually in northern Spain, has gained international fame, particularly thanks to Ernest Hemingway’s novel "The Sun Also Rises," which was published exactly a century ago. This notable anniversary has brought additional attention to the festival, a tradition that combines celebration with risk and excitement.
While the last death recorded during the San Fermin bull runs occurred in 2009, injuries are a frequent occurrence, including gorings and broken bones. The blend of novice participants and exuberant foreign tourists often amplifies the risks involved in this time-honored event.
In summary, the bull run at the San Fermin festival remains a highly anticipated event that draws crowds eager for excitement, although it is not without its significant risks, highlighted by recent injuries and past fatalities. With its long history and cultural significance, the festival continues to attract both locals and visitors from around the globe. The thrilling yet perilous nature of the bull runs underscores the fine line between celebration and caution during this historic event.
