Running With the Bulls... in California

You don't have to go all the way to northern Spain to run with the bulls — this summer you should be able to hit the southern California 'burbs and do the same thing.

Well, not quite the same. You won't be running in the cobblestone streets of Pamplona, but in the Temecula Downs Event Center, about halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego. Organizers are planning a bull run modeled on the famous Pamplona event, with participants running a quarter-of-a-mile along a track with fencing. Runners will have multiple escape routes to access in case a charging bull catches up with them.

Organizers ensure the event is safe, and the bulls are treated well and cared for by a veterinarian. Those reassurances weren't enough to convince officials in the nearby city of Lake Elsinore, which passed on the bull event before Temecula snapped it up.

If organizers get the necessary permits, the bull run should happen in June. Not only can you race a steer, a traditional Spanish tomato fight is planned, along with music and food. Such events have happened on the East Coast and, thankfully, no one's been gored.

Read more here.