Written by the Tidings Staff | 04 August 2010

Now that the World Cup is over and the Summer Olympics don't begin until 2012, you're probably wondering how to get your sports fix. Well, here is a great way to combine your love of cheese and sports. The Dairy Farmers of Canada has announced the return of one of Canada's boldest downhill competitions -- the Canadian Cheese Rolling Festival. Mark your calendars for 12:00 noon on August 14th in Whistler, British Columbia. Get ready for an afternoon of cheese rolling races and other fun activities for the whole family.

As crazy as it sounds, cheese rolling is exactly that. It is not made for those who easily crumble. A large wheel of cheese is rolled down a hill and daring Canadians chase after it. The first contestant to make it down the hill wins. Canadian cheesemaker Natural Pastures produced special 11-pound wheels of Cracked Pepper Verdelait cheese for the festival. The winners get to take home the giant, coveted wheel of 100% Canadian cheese along with a Whistler season ski pass. "Last year, the attendance at the Canadian Cheese Rolling Festival was above our expectations and many people from across the country and abroad have asked us to bring it back," says Solange Heiss, assistant director, marketing and nutrition communications, Dairy Farmers of Canada. "It's a great activity for the entire family and a fantastic way to showcase the amazing 100% Canadian cheeses this country has to offer."

The race course will be set up in Whistler's Upper Village on Blackcomb Mountain. Free round trip transportation to Blackcomb Mountain Base 2 parking lot via Excalibur Gondola in Whistler village is available for everyone. Anyone over 19 years of age can participate and contestants can register on site on August 14th. The downhill event will consist of six men's and three women's races. The winner from each round will compete in the finals. For the kids, there will be six uphill races that will be a little easier.

In addition to the races, contestants, families and spectators can take in a host of other fun activities including cheese bowling and cheese Twister. Everyone will be able to sample delicious Canadian cheese, wander through a Farmers Market and participate in cheese seminars. Canadian comic and award-winning host, Jebb Fink, will be hosting the days' festivities. To find out more visit the Canadian Cheese Rolling Festival. www.canadiancheeserolling.ca

cheese | children | festivals