The 43rd Yushu Horse Racing Festival kicked off in Qinghai, showcasing thrilling races and centuries-old traditions at 4,000 meters above sea level.
On July 26, the finals of the 43rd Yushu Horse Racing Festival took place in Yushu City, Qinghai Province. Nearly 300 riders from Qinghai, Sichuan, Xizang, and other regions competed at a racecourse over 4,000 meters above sea level. Hooves thundered across the grasslands as riders showcased speed, skill, and tradition.
The event featured a variety of traditional equestrian performances. Highlights included horseback shooting, trick riding, hada-picking, and elegant trotting shows. In the trotting event, riders wore bright silk costumes and paraded with flair, winning cheers from the crowd. The horseback shooting contest amazed onlookers as riders fired arrows with smooth, fluid motion while galloping at full speed. In the high-stakes hada-picking challenge, riders leaned off their horses to grab ceremonial scarves from the track without slowing down—a thrilling display of balance and bravery.
The Yushu Horse Racing Festival has a history of over 1,300 years. In 2008, it was listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of China. It remains a vital celebration for local communities and a living expression of the Kham culture.
This year’s festival also combined sports, culture, and commerce. Alongside the races, visitors explored exhibitions of livestock, local products, and tourism offerings. The event served not only as a celebration of tradition but also as a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and regional development.
Additional reporting by Qinghai Daily, Chinanews.com.cn.
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