Simply imagine a group of 10-12 testosterone full fighting bulls running at large on a large public street. Add a good number of people being chased by these bulls along narrow passages for a good half of a mile and very likely you will get one of Spain's most attended yet dangerous events possibly imaginable: the "Encierro" better known as " the running of the bulls".

The event takes place each year between July 7th and July 14th in observation of Saint Fermin, patron of Navarre's capital, Pamplona. People gather together along the starting line at Plaza Santo Domingo, where they fervently attend the arrival of the bulls. As the tension builds up the young men repeatedly sing to a statue of Saint Fermin placed in a small niche in the wall "We ask San Fermn, as our Patron, to guide us through the Bull Run event and give us his loving blessing."

A sudden rocket takes off at exactly 8 AM, signaling the beginning of the event. Shortly thereafter, the bulls arrive rushing wildly as the young men run for their lives. It is a strong adrenaline packed event both for the spectators and the runners. Nothing may give you a rush as hearing hooves pounding right behind you and the threat of the horns poking your back. The only escape route at a certain point for the runners is to look for a sudden gap in the fence or to make enough time to jump over it. Injuries take place easily and sometimes even deaths are reported. Not many other competitions out there may equal the level of risks associated with this event.

The tradition started many years ago, it is estimated perhaps in 1951 when the bulls were herded to the designated bull fighting area. Only difference was that at that time the men were herding the bulls from behind, in other words, the bulls were chased so to allow them to get to the fighting area. Much more safer than now where the men are actually on contrary, being chased by bulls weighing 1,500 pounds or more!

Here are some interesting facts about this unique race:

-If you want to be a runner you must be 18 years or older. Cameras, back packs, camcorders are highly discouraged as they may slow you down or cause you to fail to exit.

-Should you fall, do not get up, rather cover your head and wait for personnel to tap your shoulder indicating there are no more bulls. This procedure was adopted after a fatal accident occurred to Peter Mathews Tasio as he was getting up.

-Runners typically wear white t- shirts and a red bandana.

-Runners

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