The running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, saw an 86-year-old British man among 57 injured participants on the final day of the San Fermin festival. The man, from Halesowen, West Midlands, suffered injuries to his right hand, left elbow, and right eyebrow after being trampled during the chaotic sprint through narrow streets.
Each morning at 8am, thrill-seekers dressed in white with red neckerchiefs race ahead of six bulls over an 848.6-meter course from a holding pen to the bullring. While many participants seek adrenaline, the event carries significant risks, including trampling and gorings.
Injuries and Hospitalizations in the 2024 Bull Run
Two Spaniards were gored on the final day: an 18-year-old local man suffered a gore to the left thigh, and a 46-year-old from Guadalajara sustained a horn wound to the chest. Neither was critically injured. The British octogenarian was assessed by doctors and not thought to be badly hurt.
Over the past 116 years, at least 16 deaths have occurred during the runs. The last fatality was Daniel Jimeno Romero in 2009, who was fatally gored in the neck and lung. The festival, immortalized by Ernest Hemingway in The Sun Also Rises, continues to draw international participants despite its dangers.
Comparison of Injuries by Age Group
| Age Group | Common Injuries | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| 18-30 | Gorings, trampling, fractures | Moderate to severe |
| 31-50 | Bruises, sprains, horn wounds | Mild to moderate |
| 51+ | Falls, contusions, fractures | Moderate to critical |
Key Takeaways for Participants
- Always wear protective gear such as padded clothing and sturdy shoes.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid crowded sections of the course.
- Understand the risks: trampling and gorings are common, especially for older participants.
- Follow official safety guidelines and listen to marshals.
FAQ
How many people were injured in the 2024 Pamplona bull run?
A total of 57 people were injured, including an 86-year-old British man and two Spaniards who were gored.
What are the most common injuries during the running of the bulls?
Common injuries include trampling, gorings, fractures, bruises, and sprains. Older participants often suffer falls and contusions.
Has anyone died in the Pamplona bull run?
Yes, at least 16 deaths have occurred over the past 116 years. The last fatality was in 2009 when a 27-year-old participant was gored in the neck and lung.
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