Horse race on the ‘White Plateau’ of Bac Ha

Seventy-five jockeys from ethnic groups living on the ‘White Plateau’ of Bac Ha, in the northern mountainous province of Lao Cai, gathered at the annual horse race festival on June 9.

Jockeys galloping during the race despite the rain.
Jockeys galloping during the race despite the rain.

The jockeys came from the Si Ma Cai and Bac Ha districts of Lao Cai province, and Xin Man district of Ha Giang province.

They were divided and entered into 18 knock-out matches to select the best 16 contenders, who then entered the semi-final and final round.

Jockey Vang Van Vinh from Thai Giang Pho commune, Bac Ha district, Lao Cai province won the race and was awarded VND30 million in cash.

Vang Seo Vu and Vang Van Huynh were named the first and second runners-up, with cash prize of VND20 million and VND10 million, respectively.

Despite the rain, the race attracted nearly 50,000 spectaculars, including many foreigners.

Horse race on the ‘White Plateau’ of Bac Ha ảnh 1

The race attracted 75 jockeys from ethnic groups living on Bac Ha Plateau

Horse race on the ‘White Plateau’ of Bac Ha ảnh 2

Winners honoured at the event