ALL THIS FOR A TRUCKLE OF CHEESE?
WHAT IS CHEESE ROLLING?
During the spring, the southwest part of England hosts one of the strangest sports each year — cheese rolling. People worldwide travel to watch and participate as contestants launch themselves down a hill in pursuit of a round of cheese. But how did this sport come to be? It’s kind of a mystery. No one really knows the origins of cheese rolling. For as long as the locals can remember, the sport has always been there. Several theories attempt to explain how the sport came about. One theory states that the competition started in the 15th century, and racing down the hill was a way to establish grazing rights on the commons.
tells you to go, you launch yourself down the mountain. The first person to grab the 8-pound wheel of double cream Gloucester (which has never been done before) or cross the finish line at the bottom (about 200 yards) will win the race and the cheese. You don’t need to meet any criteria or fill out any paperwork to participate. Simply arrive at the top of the hill before the race begins, and you’re all set. But participating is at your own risk: Many people suffer severe injuries because you’re going down the hill at speeds reaching 70 mph.
Others say the game has a pagan origin, where people would throw bundles of brushwood down the hill to represent the new year once winter ends. Although its roots are unknown, locals have kept score since the 1970s and watched it gain in popularity over the years. WHAT ARE THE RULES? Competitors begin the race at the top of Cooper’s Hill in Brockworth, Gloucester, which slopes downward at an almost 90-degree angle. Then, when the master of ceremonies
The sport has gained many fans over the years — around 15,000 attendees come to view the spectacle annually. The media attention further spreads the interest and popularity of cheese rolling. Many YouTube channels cover the sport, and a Netflix show titled “We Are the Champions” has an episode covering the sport and how competitors train.
Can you believe all of this excitement and fame over a truckle of cheese?
Preserve Your Life’s Work HOW ANYONE CAN BENEFIT FROM ESTATE PLANS
There are many misconceptions about estate planning, the number one always being that it is meant for the wealthy — and that is simply not the case. People from all income and wealth levels can benefit from a comprehensive estate plan, and the sooner you start, the better!
Think of it this way: If you have time to plan a family vacation, you have time to make sure your future self and loved ones are protected!
FINANCIAL CONFIDENCE One immediate benefit of estate planning is having control over your finances. Many people experience a new sense of discipline while maintaining their finances, which can help save for retirement, more significant purchases, or other goals. Not only do you get the personal benefit of financial control, but you also get to dictate exactly how and when your heirs receive an inheritance. It is essential for minor heirs or those who need additional guidance to manage their inheritance. EVALUATING RISKS An essential aspect of any estate plan is mitigating future or current risks. Since life tends to be unpredictable, and if something were to happen to you unexpectedly, your estate plan allows you to choose who will be in control of your assets. Without an estate plan, the court may appoint a legal guardian who could cost money, make decisions you would disapprove of, and inconvenience your family during a difficult time. Contact us today at (901) 388-5805 so that Douglass & Runger, PLLC, Attorneys at Law, can guide you through the processes to protect you, your assets, and your family.
FORWARD THINKING FAMILY GOALS The first step in creating an estate plan is deciding your long-term goals. This can include caring for a minor, elderly parents, disabled relatives, or even distributing real and personal property to individuals who will appreciate and maintain these assets properly. It is also a great way to plan in case you become incapacitated. Accidents and illnesses can happen to all of us, and you want to be prepared if this occurs. This way, your loved ones won’t need to make legal decisions while dealing with the stress and grief of your passing.
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