BUZKASHI is the National sports in Afghanistan, it is alarmingly fast and extremely physical. The word buzkashi literally translates as ‘goat pulling’ in Persian. This traditional game is played on horseback, similar to polo, but instead of a ball, it’s a headless goat carcass that players are maneuvering around the field of play. A headless carcass is placed in the center of a circle and surrounded by the players of two opposing teams. Traditionally, games could last for several days, but in its more regulated tournament version, it has a limited match time
The objective of the game is to grab the carcass of a goat or calf, clear it of other players and get it into a target circle to attain points. The task of the opponents is to take "the ball" away from the opponents, transport it around the field and throw it into the circle of rivals. Sometimes 온라인경마 in order to make the game difficult, the previously prepared bag is soaked for several days in ice water, making it heavier and harder to maintain. This match lasted for three hours and traditionally take place on a Friday and are capable of drawing thousands of fans.
Buzkashi, is indeed a dangerous sport, but intensive training and excellent communication between the horse and rider can help minimize the risk of injury. It is definitely not a game for the weak. The players are not the only ones who undergo difficult training, the horses that participate in buzkashi must train for five years before ever making it to the playing field. The players or chapandaz (masterfull players) usually wear heavy clothing and head gear to protect themselves against the other players’ whips and boots. The boots usually have high heels that lock into the paddle, of the horse’s saddle. This helps the rider lean on the side of the horse while trying to pick up the carcass.
Sport was created in the 13th century, began among the nomadic Turkic peoples who came from farther north and east spreading westward from China and Mongolia. It is an ancient game played in Afghanistan and dates back to the days of Ghengis Khan alsocalled Chingiz Khan. It is played mostly in the provinces of Maimana, Mazar-i-Sharif, and Kataghan. As a rule, women are not allowed to watch.
Not all horsemen may own their horses. Actually, most of the Buzkashi horses belong to rich men who can afford to buy them and hire trainers. Usually, the owner of the horse also awards the horseman a prize, as his horse gains much fame in this manner.
Animal rights activists will understandably be repulsed by the use of an animal carcass in sport, but the popularity of buzkashi shows no sign of slowing down. Click here...
