The Guardian called it a "world-famous event," with winners coming from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Egypt, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States.

The competitors aim to catch the cheese; however, it has around a one-second head start and can reach high speeds, enough to knock over and injure a spectator.

Connected with this belief is the traditional scattering of buns, biscuits and sweets at the top of the hill by the Master of Ceremonies.

[24] Each is protected for the rolling by a wooden casing round the side, and is decorated with ribbons at the start of the race.

[11] Since 1988, the cheese has been supplied by local cheesemaker Diana Smart and her son Rod from their Churcham farm.

[7] Chief Superintendent Nigel Avron of Gloucestershire Constabulary also made these comments: "If you are an organiser in some way or some capacity you could potentially be held liable for something that took place at that event".

[27] In recent years, organisers of the event have felt compelled to use a lightweight foam version for safety reasons.

In the second race of 2013, Australian Caleb Stalder managed to catch the fake cheese and claim victory despite being some way behind the leaders.

[30] Canadian competitor Delaney Irving won the ladies race in 2023, despite finishing unconscious, and only learning of her victory in the medical enclosure.

[32] There is no official medical provision on site, leading to concerns from the local resilience forum about the safety of the event.