4. Archery
This sport, derived from ancient hunting and military practices, is today most popular in the Mainling, Medog, and Zayu areas of the southeastern part of Southwest China's Tibet.
One Tibetan form of the art is somewhat unusual. The archer shoots an arrow, its clubbed arrowhead pierced with wind channels, high in the air. The air rushing through the channels creates a high-pitched sound, hence the so-called whistling arrow.
5. Wrestling
Two wrestlers dressed in robes secured with broad belts grasp each other about the waist, each seeking to throw the other to the ground. Only the hands and the strength of the upper body can be used; the use of the feet is not permitted.
6. Two-man tug-of-war
In this version of tug-of-war, two ends of a rope are tied together to form a great loop. Each of the two competitors harnesses himself or herself to the rope, passing it between the legs and up over the shoulders. Then, facing in opposite directions, the two struggle forward on their hands and knees, each trying to pull the other over a middle line.
7. Yak race
Yak races are a special favorite of the Tibetans. The eighth month of every year sees the arrival of the Harvest (Ongkor) Festival. The people dress in their best and sing and dance to celebrate the harvest. They match their skills in yak racing. The yaks' massive heads are adorned with red flowers, their backs fitted with ornamented saddles. The yak jockeys' whips fly as they urge their mounts still faster towards the finish line.
Email to Friends
Print
Save