Hohhot hosts equestrianism and horseracing festival

(chinadaily.com.cn)

Updated: 2016-09-26

On Sept 24, the Third Inner Mongolia Equestrianism and Horseracing Festival began in Hohhot, Inner Mongolia autonomous region, attracting 32 squads and 110 contestants from China and abroad.

Jockeys compete in the 1700-meter race with 3-year-old horses, during the Third Inner Mongolia Equestrianism and Horseracing Festival held in Hohhot, on Sept 24. [Photo/Xinhua]

The three-day event involves 21 games in total, and among them horseracing has the largest number of jockeys and horses.

The races includes a 1000-meter race and a 1700-meter race with 3-year-old horses; a 1000-meter race, a 1700-meter race and a 3200-meter race with thoroughbred horses over 4 years old; and eight long distance races with adult horses.

Apart from horseracing, the festival will hold some equestrian shows and dressage, a traditional Mongolian horseback archery, and a forum on the horse industry.

A female jockey performs for the crowd at the opening ceremony of the Third Inner Mongolia Equestrianism and Horseracing Festival held in Hohhot, on Sept 24. [Photo/Xinhua]

As a contest allowing male and female riders to compete together, the horse showjumping is divided into two separate groups for adults and teenagers.

Regional and local officials along with thousands of residents and tourists, attended the opening ceremony of the festival, and Inner Mongolian singers and dancers performed on stage.

Integrating sports events, local tourism, and ethnic customs, festival organizers hope to present a unique spectacle for tourists along with boosting the horse industry in Inner Mongolia.

A jockey performs at the opening ceremony of the Third Inner Mongolia Equestrianism and Horseracing Festival held in Hohhot, on Sept 24. [Photo/Xinhua]