Over time, what started as a folk activity has developed into a large-scale festival, becoming a distinctive cultural symbol of the Bay Nui region and recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. The ox race is not only a sporting event but also a vibrant symphony of Khmer culture. The oxen are carefully cared for and closely associated with the farming life; the "ox riders" are not just racers but also keepers of the festival's soul. Local people, from young to old, consider the ox race an integral part of their homeland.

Below are some images captured by reporters from the People's Army Newspaper at the 30th Bay Nui Bull Racing Festival, held on September 20th in An Giang .

The colorful pieces of cloth on each pair of oxen are meant to bring good luck in the race.
The "bull riders" lead pairs of strong bulls onto the racetrack, ready for the competition.
Khmer children are introduced to their unique traditional culture by their parents.
The bull racing festival is also an opportunity for the Khmer community to preserve and showcase their traditional cultural identity.

THUY AN - NAM NGUYEN - DANG MINH VU (compiled)

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    Source: https://www.qdnd.vn/van-hoa/doi-song/hap-dan-hoi-dua-bo-bay-nui-847153