Cultural horse racing extravaganza draws tourists to Tongliao

Horse racing during a speed competition at the 25th Jirem Horse Racing Festival. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Daily] 

The 25th Jirem Horse Racing Festival in Tongliao city, North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region, attracted over 80,000 residents and tourists who gathered to experience traditional culture and the exhilarating speed and passion of ancient competitive sports.

The festival ran on Aug 18-20 and had 25 sub-categories across six main groups. Events included horse racing, Mongolian wrestling (Bokh) and archery.

Mongolian wrestling (Bokh) competitors grapple at the 25th Jirem Horse Racing Festival. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Daily] 

The grounds were filled with numerous commercial stalls and interactive games, creating a unique atmosphere of participation, sharing and interaction.

Since its inception in 1995, the Jirem Horse Racing Festival has hosted 24 previous editions, evolving into a comprehensive cultural extravaganza that blends traditional sports, ethnic culture and unique tourism experiences.

Mongolian-style dancers performing on stage at the opening ceremony of the 25th Jirem Horse Racing Festival. [Photo/Inner Mongolia Daily]