VietNamNet Bridge – The annual ox racing festival at Rô Temple is a popular event for both locals and tourists. This year’s edition, which took place on October 14-15, gathered 25 pairs of strong oxen from all over Tinh Bien District. Thousands of locals and tourists flocked to the site including hundreds of photographers from all over the country. It is no longer just a traditional festival for Khmer people, but also a fun opportunity for all.

Top tunes: A local band performs at the site. — VNS Photos Viet Thanh

Local temples often host community events like boat races and ox races during the Khmer festivals of Ok Om Bok and Sen Đonta.

The ox race originated from Khmer people’s love for working and open minds. According to old monks, the event started a long time ago when local young people brought their oxen to work on the temple’s paddy field. They organised an ox race to create a fun, competitive atmosphere at work to boost efficiency. Soon after, monks started giving out simple awards to encourage the races. Gradually, the ox race has become one of the most anticipated events of the year for locals. 

Man and beast: A farmer takes a rest with his oxen. Wheel-y exciting: Local monks prepare a cart. Wild ride: The race is always thrilling.  Perfect shot: The annual race has become a highly anticipated event in the region.  Best of the best: This year, 25 of the district’s strongest pairs of oxen participated in the race.  Spectator sport: Tourists and locals gather to watch the race.  Local history: According to the temple’s monks, the tradition stretches back to a playful race organised by young workers.

Viet Thanh

Source: VNS