MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan — A buzkashi tournament featuring 70 riders was held in Mazar-e-Sharif, the center of the northern province of Balkh, on Tuesday, according to the local buzkashi federation.
The tournament concluded with Pahlawan Zakaria who successfully delivered the target—a goat carcass—into the “Circle of Justice,” securing victory as declared by the field judges.
The one-day event was aimed at preparing buzkashi riders for future competitions while also providing an opportunity for citizens to enjoy a popular and culturally significant sport.
Buzkashi, Afghanistan’s national sport, is a centuries-old tradition that attracts large crowds, particularly in the country’s northern provinces.
Riders compete in a fast-paced and physically demanding contest, vying to grab a goat carcass and carry it to a designated scoring area.
