25-05-2025
- Sport
- South China Morning Post
Pakistan's traditional bull races a source of pride, and income, in rural areas
Bulls are yoked together by thick wooden frames in a sun-scorched field in rural Pakistan, while behind them, holding onto nothing more than ropes and his honour, is a man on a plank.
Hundreds of spectators whoop and cheer as the animals begin to hurtle down a track, whipping up a storm of dust and imminent danger.
This is
bull racing , Punjabi style.
The traditional sport captures the raw energy of village life and is a world away from the floodlit cricket and hockey stadiums found in many Pakistani cities.
A jockey, left, controls a pair of bulls during a traditional bull race in Malal, Pakistan. Photo: AP
Jockeys crouch on a wooden platform behind the charging animals, hanging onto the reins. Photo: AP
Bull racing has deep roots in the Attock district of eastern Punjab province. It is more than just a sport there, it is a part of the region's living heritage.
