The Go Thi Thung horse race in Tuy An, Phu Yen, is known for its unexpected thrills and hilarious moments, and this year’s event on February 6 did not disappoint.

From horses suddenly stopping to graze mid-race to unseating their riders and running freely across the track, the competition entertained thousands of spectators.

Held on the ninth day of the Lunar New Year, the Go Thi Thung traditional horse race brought together 32 competitors from various communes in Tuy An District. The event, known for its unpolished and rustic charm, has been a beloved cultural tradition in Phu Yen for generations.

From early morning, crowds of spectators gathered to watch, with latecomers climbing trees for a better view. Unlike professional races, many of the participating horses are small, untrained female horses that normally carry goods and agricultural products for their owners. Some of them are so small that the riders appear larger than their mounts.

Despite the casual nature of the event, the intensity of the competition and unpredictable antics of the horses made for an exhilarating and humorous spectacle.

Horses steal the spotlight with unexpected antics

While some horses raced full speed toward the finish line, others seemed more interested in grazing on the grass or abruptly stopping mid-race, leaving their riders scrambling for assistance. In one instance, a competitor was thrown off his horse, only for the horse to continue galloping alone toward the finish line.

Another horse took a brief pause to acknowledge the cheering crowd, much to the amusement of onlookers. One particularly resourceful jockey even used a feed sack as a saddle, showcasing the rustic, improvisational spirit of the event.

The race concluded with Nguyen Huu Son from An Hiep Commune securing victory in the final round, riding horse number 23 to first place.

Beyond the excitement and laughter, the Go Thi Thung horse race is a symbol of the local martial spirit and a cherished cultural tradition. As the only event of its kind in Phu Yen and the Central Highlands region, it serves as a unique heritage festival, uniting communities in celebration of history, bravery, and equestrian skill.

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The 2025 Go Thi Thung traditional horse race took place on February 6, featuring 32 competitors from Tuy An, Phu Yen. 
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Crowds gathered early in the morning, with many climbing trees to get a better view of the race.
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The race features small, untrained female horses that typically transport goods for farmers. Some are even smaller than their riders. 
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Despite being a non-professional race, the competition’s unpredictability kept the audience entertained. 
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Some horses stopped mid-race, requiring riders to rely on teammates for help.
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One horse abruptly threw its rider to the ground before continuing the race on its own. 
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Another horse suddenly stopped to graze while racing at full speed. 
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One competitor’s horse even paused to ‘greet’ the audience during the race. 
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Despite losing its rider, horse number 22 continued running and finished the race. 
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One jockey creatively used a feed sack as a saddle instead of a traditional one. 
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Nguyen Huu Son from An Hiep Commune won first place in the final round, riding horse number 23.
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More than just a race, the Go Thi Thung festival honors the martial spirit and cultural heritage of Phu Yen. 

Thao Quyen