Bijiang Bigwazi (R) competes in a goat-grabbing game at a festive event in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 21, 2023. Goat-grabbing game is a traditional folk sport widely practiced during festive days in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The game has been passed down through generations. Riders attempt to grab a processed goatskin while riding yaks in this game. In 2009, the game was recognized and included in the list of intangible cultural heritage of Xinjiang.
The 44-year-old Bijiang Bigwazi is an inheritor of this intangible cultural heritage. Ever since he was 14 years old, he has been learning from his father how to play the game. Nowadays, he also participates in major festivals organized by the local government to showcase the charm of this unique sport as a way to boost the local tourism.
"Goat-grabbing is a sport for the brave. Since yaks are not very tame, riders are likely to get injured during the game. However, the game gives me an urge to win, as well as a chance to be recognized by the spectators," says Bigwazi. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)
Bijiang Bigwazi and his teammate select a game yak in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, March 19, 2023. Goat-grabbing game is a traditional folk sport widely practiced during festive days in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The game has been passed down through generations. Riders attempt to grab a processed goatskin while riding yaks in this game. In 2009, the game was recognized and included in the list of intangible cultural heritage of Xinjiang.
The 44-year-old Bijiang Bigwazi is an inheritor of this intangible cultural heritage. Ever since he was 14 years old, he has been learning from his father how to play the game. Nowadays, he also participates in major festivals organized by the local government to showcase the charm of this unique sport as a way to boost the local tourism.
"Goat-grabbing is a sport for the brave. Since yaks are not very tame, riders are likely to get injured during the game. However, the game gives me an urge to win, as well as a chance to be recognized by the spectators," says Bigwazi. (Xinhua/Li Xiang)
The government wants to buy their flood
What visitors on £100 Balmoral tours will see: Tourists can wander Drawing Room
James, Earl of Wessex, 16, stands shoulder
San Bernardino police arrest teen for murder of 14
Why US Catholics are planning pilgrimages in communities across the nation
Should you put 'magic' mushrooms in your coffee?
Inside Harry Kane's family life with devoted wife Katie Goodland after the couple's car crash scare
How Lady Louise Windsor is tipped for a key role in Prince William's future monarchy
A warrant for Netanyahu’s arrest was requested. But no decision was made about whether to issue it
'He's almost like a LEAGUE TWO player': Roy Keane slams Erling Haaland for his display in City's 0
US overdose deaths dropped in 2023, the first time since 2018
Masterful meals: Pea and white truffle soup with Parmesan galettes