Women break barriers as participation rises in bull runs at Pamplona

In Pamplona, Spain, the San Fermín festival draws thousands of participants to the age-old tradition of running with bulls. Over the years, the number of female participants has grown, although they remain a small minority among predominantly male runners. For decades, women were barred from participating in the bull runs; this changed only in 1975, with the repeal of a decree that had prohibited their presence during the event. The bull runs take place along an 846-meter route and last from two to four minutes, attracting crowded streets filled with enthusiastic onlookers and adventurers keen on the adrenaline rush. In recent years, awareness surrounding issues of safety and harassment has heightened, especially following a series of incidents involving harassment of women by male revelers at the festival. A particular incident leading to the imprisonment of several men in 2019 underlines the ongoing concerns about women’s safety during these events. Female participants like Yomara Martínez and Paula López express excitement about running with bulls, while also acknowledging the challenges they face in what is still seen as a male-dominated environment. Despite the increasing female presence in the runs, many women still report feelings of inadequacy and fear related to their physicality and the dangers tied to the event. However, female runners assert that when they are running, they feel a sense of equality with all participants, attributing their motivations to the thrill of bull running and the spirit of inclusion. Each year, the participation of women signifies a gradual shift in attitudes towards gender roles in this traditional spectacle, challenging historical norms and pushing the boundaries of societal expectations. As the festival continues to attract global attention and participation, the community must navigate the complexities of tradition, safety, and inclusion. The ongoing dialogue about gender in sports and events like bull running reflects broader challenges that women face in male-dominated activities. The trend towards inclusivity may pave the way for future changes in how these events are organized, ensuring a safer and more welcoming environment for participants of all genders.