F1 buffalo race in West Bali
DENPASAR (indo.com): The "Mekepung" (buffalo
race) is a thanks-giving ritual held after a good harvest.
It is usually organized by the cultivators' organization
(subak), and involves hundreds of buffalos competing in
a race. This year, this event takes place on August 4 in
the western part of Bali, Jembrana.
The animals are actually water buffalo, normally docile
creatures, which charge down a 2 km stretch of road or
beach pulling tiny decorated chariots. These are often
little more than the sort of plough used in the fields.
The rider stands or kneels on top of the chariot driving
the bullocks on by twisting their tails to steer them
round the makeshift racetrack.
Important races are usually held throughout this part
of west Bali from August to October. Occasional races
are also set up for tourists groups at a park in Perancak
on the coast. They usually start in the morning on Sunday,
and are over by noon.
The winner, however, is not necessarily first past the
post. Style also plays a part and points are awarded for
the most elegant runner. Every farmer enters a racing
buffalo, and the winner is awarded the Jembrana Regency
Bupati Cup (previously, the winner received a pair of
cows and cultivation equipment).
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