Gallop & Giggles: Yushu’s Epic Horse & Yak Racing Fest

Imagine thundering hooves, daring acrobatics, and… yaks? The annual horse racing festival in Yushu City (Qinghai Province, the Chinese mainland) serves up an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and cultural heritage – with a side of fluffy chaos!

Riders showcase jaw-dropping skills like horseback archery and mid-gallop flips, but the real showstopper? Yak races! These woolly contenders – in black, white, and spotted coats – sprint with hilarious determination, continuing a tradition older than your favorite medieval Netflix drama.

History Alert: Legend says yak races began during the Tang Dynasty to cheer up Princess Wencheng after her marriage to Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo. Turns out, yaks are nature’s perfect mood boosters!

Festival Highlights:

• Equestrian feats straight out of Mulan training montages
• Yak races that’ll make you question who’s really the ‘king of the mountain’
• A vibrant fusion of Tibetan culture and modern excitement

(Cover photo/video credit: Publicity Department of the CPC Yushu Municipal Committee)

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Experience the thrill of horse and yak racing at one festival

cgtn.com