28 March
A Myanmar traditional bullock cart and bullock race kicked off at 10 a.m. on 27 March in the football field in Kyaungtaw Village, Pwintbyu Township, Magway Region. The race is part of the 2,587th Budda Pujaniya Tabaung Festival at the Sandakuu Nant Thar Kyaung Taw Yar Pagoda.
“The bullock cart and bullock race is being held as part of the Buddha Pujaniya Tabaung festival, which is traditionally held every year. The traditional race was not held for about 30 years. So, the present race was organized with the support of the Magway Region government and officials from township departments. The bullock cart and bullock race will be held from 27 March to 4 April. There will be two categories in the competition — bullock cart race and bullock race. Winners will be awarded K50,000 and gifts. Additionally, a horse riding competition, which has seen a decline for years, will be held from 1 to 3 April. The first prize for the race will be K5,00,000, the second prize K3,00,000, and the third prize K2,00,000. All horse-racing lovers and equestrian athletes can join the competition, and accommodation will be arranged for them. Officials have inspected the competition courses, horse stables, and areas for spectators. The secretary and members of the Myanmar Equestrian Federation, doctors, and referees will be present at the race,” said an official with the horse racing competition implementation committee.
In the past, the Buddha Pujaniya Tabaung festival at the historic Sandakuu Nant Thar Kyaung Taw Yar pagoda was held with bullock and horse racing games in Kyaungtaw Village, and most bullock and horse owners usually participated in the festival.—Ye Win Naing (NyaungU)
(Translated by La Wonn)
