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Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the Border with Timor Leste

 

Following the successful motorcycle rally held recently , the Northern Central Timor Regency that directly borders neighboring Timor Leste, has again come up with yet another thrilling event: the Crossborder Horse Races, that were ongoing from 26th to 30th November 2017. The races took place at the Kilometer 9 race Track atKefamenanu Town.

Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the  Border with Timor Leste
Photo source: www.foto.metrotvnews.com

No less than 160 contenders comprising teams of the best race horses and most skillful jockeys from Kupang, Atambua, Sumba, Rote, as well as from the neighboringTimor Leste, gathered to compete in this thrilling race. The competition was divided into 2 categories: National and Local categories, with divisions into: A Super, A Sprint, Open Sprint, Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E, and Beginners. A total cash prize of IDR250 million awaited winners of the competition.

Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the  Border with Timor Leste
Photo source: www.travel.kompas.com

"Horse Racing is one of the most favorite activities here" said Head of the Crossborder Horse Races Organizing Committee, Bonny Adistri. Adding that, the enthusiasm for this event on the side the public on both sides of the border has been really high. Not only were there many participants, but crowds from all regions also flocked to the track to watch the exciting actions. " The jockeys are not alone, they have teams of 5 to 7 people who assist in preparing for the race. These then also bring supporters and general spectators, who cheer them on. All ths will certainly increase tourist arrivals to Indonesian Timor", added Bony Adistri.

Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the  Border with Timor Leste
Image source: Shutterstock

Meanwhile, Regent of Northern Central Timor Raymundus Sau Fernandes explained that horses are inseparable from the daily life of the Timorese. Although todaymotorbikes and other motor vehicles may have taken over their role as means of transportation, nonetheless, horses still maintain an unquestionably important role in thetraditions and culture of the Timorese. "That is the reason why the event has its very own appeal. We are planning to stage such events every three years. Aside from being exciting entertainment for local communities, such event will also serve to preserve our culture at the same time promote tourism to Northern Central Timor Regency" said the Regent.

Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the  Border with Timor Leste
Photo source: www.nasional.republika.co.id

Highly Popular Horse Racing Competitions along the  Border with Timor Leste
Photo source: www.sumutpos.co

Separately Indonesia's Minister of Tourism, Arief Yahya expressed his appreciation for efforts made by the Regency. By highlighting local potentials and organizing themwell in events such as in cross-border horse races, will definitely create a special attraction for international tourists, and in the long run will boost their arrival to the regency.

 

Photo source of header banner: www.foto.metrotvnews.com

 

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