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  • Axios Philadelphia

    Red Bull is bringing a greased-pole competition to Philly

    By Isaac Avilucea,

    2024-06-14

    Red Bull is testing out Philadelphia's dominance in this town's ultimate sport: greased poles .

    Why it matters: The sports drink and sports events company better pack the extra greasy grease because Philadelphians have wings in this contest.


    Driving the news: Red Bull is heading to Philly on July 27 to launch their inaugural Championship Run in the estuary of the Spruce Street Harbor Park , per a news release.

    • The first 100 contestants who sign up will take their turn sprinting up — instead of climbing — a greased pole.
    • It costs $29 to enter the competition with prizes announced as the event draws closer.

    How it works: Runners will compete in heats of 20, laying it all on the line as they clamber up the slick stick to grab the flag the fastest.

    • If no one captures the flag, the runner who travels furthest up the pole in the shortest time will be declared the winner.
    • Just to ratchet up the extreme stakes: The pole is re-greased after each heat.

    What they're saying: Organizers said the event will test competitors' speed, balance and sheer will to win.

    • "Fail to grab the flag and you'll be relegated to the sidelines, watching in anticipation for your chance at redemption next year."

    What we're watching: Who enters the competition.

    • Philly's has a veritable "who's who" list of pole-climbers, many of whom compete every year at the Italian Market Festival.

    Sign up for Axios Philadelphia for free.

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