The race, which attracted hundreds of spectators, saw runners start from the Royal Oak pub to the Maypole Green in the village centre.
Here are some of the best pictures from the event: (All pics Simon Hulme/JPI)
1.
The men’s race of 50kg of coal was won for the fourth time in a row by Andrew Corrigan of Driffield with a time of four minutes and 16 seconds, while the women’s race of 20kg of coal was run by Amy Walker of Dewsbury with a time of four minutes and 52 seconds. Photo: Simon Hulme
2.
Mr Corrigan beat his previous record by 10 seconds, taking home a prize of £750 while Ms Walker won £500. Photo: Simon Hulme
3.
The event began in 1963 when Gawthorpe residents Reggie Sedgewick and Amos Clapham were enjoying a drink at the Beehive Inn. Photo: Simon Hulme
4.
Another local man, Lewis Hartley came into the pub and remarked how tired Mr Sedgewick looked, to which he took offence. Photo: Simon Hulme
5.
He challenged Mr Hartley to get a bag of coal and put it on his back and race him to the nearby wood. Photo: Simon Hulme
6.
Another bystander suggested the race be held on Easter Monday, and thus the World Coal Carrying Championships were born. Photo: Simon Hulme