English Professor Marks Two Decades of Running with the Bulls in Pamplona
An English professor named Bill Hillmann has been running with the bulls in Pamplona, Spain, for twenty years, a pursuit inspired by Ernest Hemingway's novel 'The Sun Also Rises'.
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, July 11, 2026 —
Bill Hillmann, an English professor, has commemorated twenty years of participating in the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Spain. This enduring tradition was sparked by his immersion in Ernest Hemingway’s acclaimed novel, The Sun Also Rises.
Hillmann’s annual pilgrimage to Pamplona began two decades ago, drawing inspiration directly from Hemingway’s vivid depiction of the San Fermín festival. The novel, published in 1926, not only brought international attention to the event but also captivated readers with its portrayal of post-war disillusionment and the search for meaning through intense experiences.
For twenty years, Hillmann has returned to the narrow streets of Pamplona, navigating the adrenaline-fueled runs alongside the charging bulls. The event, which forms part of the larger San Fermín festival, involves participants running ahead of a group of six bulls along a 875-meter (0.53 mile) street course leading to the Plaza de Toros, the town’s bullring.
The tradition, deeply rooted in Navarrese culture, has become a significant draw for international tourists and thrill-seekers. While the running of the bulls is a central event, the San Fermín festival encompasses a wide range of other cultural activities, including concerts, parades, and traditional Basque sports.
Hillmann’s long-standing involvement highlights the enduring appeal of the festival and its connection to literary and cultural touchstones. His personal engagement with the event, influenced by Hemingway’s work, underscores the novel’s lasting impact on how the San Fermín festival is perceived and experienced globally.
Story summarized from the original created by Don Gonyea on www.npr.org, see more information here.
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