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Be a part of history. The race in the English town of Olney (pronounced Oh-nee)
has been held nearly every year since 1445! The origins of the race are not
known; however, you could adapt the following rules for the Olney Pancake Race to
suit your own community, school, or library competition. (For instance, over the
centuries, the Olney race has only permitted women to compete.) Hold the race indoors or
outdoors. Use a nearby park or the schoolyard for the race site; mark 415 yards, the Olney
race length. And so on.
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Race date
Since 1445, the race has been held on Shrove Tuesday (March 7th this year), like
Mardi Gras celebrations elsewhere around the world. The official time is 11:55 a.m.
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Who Runs?
Traditionally, only the town women who are 18 years or older, but you can bend the rules here!
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Racing Gear
"Traditional costume of a housewife," meaning, a skirt, an apron, headcovering (scarf), and,
of course, a frying pan containing a pancake. Running shoes, unknown in 1445, and a modern,
safety touch. (Adjust the required "costume" accordingly.)
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The Course
In England, racers run 415 yards through the town.
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At the Start
The Starter will order the competitors: "Toss your pancakes - Are you ready?" And
the bell is rung as the racers start off. The pancakes must stay in the pans during the race.
If they fall out, the racer must put the pancake back in the pan and resume running. (Consider
relay teams, running a longer course.)
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At the Finish
In England, after the winner crosses the finish line, she must toss her pancake into
the air and catch it in the pan before being declared the winner.
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The Prize
A copy of Amazing Grace: The Story of the Hymn, either given to the winner, or
donated to the school, library, etc. The winner's name is printed in an honorary volume
of winners' names for all to see.
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Copyright © Linda Grandfield, 1997
Back to the Tundra Teacher Guide for:
Amazing Grace,
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