The Pamplona bull runs are some of the most famous annual events in the world, with hundreds of brave men running through the streets of the small Spanish town as charging bulls come after them with vicious intent. Injuries are common during the events, but the latest event has become the most dangerous event in years, as three men were severely injured when a rogue bull managed to run them down.
The News International is reporting that the three men, a 20-year-old American, and two Spaniards aged 31 and 42, had to be run to the local hospital when a half-ton bull broke away from the pack in the streets and started attacking runners. Bulls are more likely to charge when they are separate from other bulls, as they get more disoriented. The 31-year-old man was the one who initially faced the bull's wrath. He suffered various injuries from the bull's horn in his legs and groin, before other brave runners were able to distract the bull.
During this year's event, 21 men have been sent to the hospital in the six bull runs held so far, with hundreds getting treated at local aid stations set up near the run. Overall, since the bull runs started in 1911, 15 men have been killed while braving the dangerous course, with the most recent death occurring four years ago.
The bull run takes place over a course that is almost 1,000 yards long, with several safety points placed around the course to help those injured. After the run is completed the bulls are then lead to a bullfighting arena, where participants can test their luck again by getting close enough to touch the smaller bulls from the run. The bulls are then used for the bullfights held later in the day.
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