447 reported injured, 1 dead at 2009 Running of the Bulls

Photo: Wreckeddeco

With 447 injuries reported and one death (the first since 2003), San Fermin’s bull-running event has come to a close for 2009. The event, which runs for a week every July, is still a lifetime highlight for many looking to drink excessively, wear cute red kerchiefs and haul ass with livestock.

The run itself spans 840 meters and winds through cobble-stone streets, which trip many of the bulls and make them quite cross. A 27 year old Spanish native was gored to death this year at a section called “Telefonica” just before entering the bullring.

Graham Kingaby, Insurance Director at WorldNomads.com, reports that no bull-related injuries have turned up this year within their system. As for whether or not runners are covered, he says that it all depends on the scenario. Innocent bystanders who have been hurt, if standing behind barricades, will probably be seen as simply unlucky and should not have any problems with claims.

Bull Recognizes Photo Opportunity. Photo: enekajimenez1977

As for those juiced up and unprepared for a ‘sport’ that requires impeccable balance and timing, Kingaby comments, “Most sane people would agree that being smashed out of your head on the Bull Run is probably going to result in a trip to the hospital or in the worst case a trip to the morgue. If you’re doing something ultra dangerous, like this, there’s a good chance you won’t be covered by your travel insurance provider, so check your policy.”

He adds wisely, “Don’t make any decisions after nine shots of Jack Daniels, least of all any that involve many tons of upset cattle with sharp horns.”

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Be sure to check out our armchair travel guide to bull running, as well as our primer on how to make the run.