Oman’s finest horsemen keep traditions alive

Energy Monday 10/September/2018 19:01 PM
By: Times News Service
Oman’s finest horsemen keep traditions alive

Evoking precious memories of the fabled knights of the past, residents and citizens in Oman were taken on a trip – nay, a gallop – through memory lane at a very special event in the Sharqiyah Governorate.
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Performing to a stunning score and historical folk song that reflected the folklore and traditions of thousands of years of Omani culture, 60 horse riders performed incredible moves to show off their mounted equestrian skills at the horse racing course in the wilayat of Ibra.
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Organised by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Zad Al Rakib Committee in the wilayat, the combination of traditional music, thunderous hoof beats and military precision made for an amazing ambience for everyone to enjoy.
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Several skilled jockeys were part of the traditional Omani horse riding and race held in Ibra two Fridays ago. As expected, residents and citizens who wanted to peek into the past of Oman’s famed horsemanship, which is known for its unique style, saw the steeds festooned with colourful clothing (also known traditionally as the Numnah), that is normally placed under the saddle to avoid the horse getting bruised or injured. Known for its intricate threadwork and embroidery and accompanied by the traditional Zaana saddle, what truly surprised the audience were amazingly adventurous moments such as riders balancing on the backs of two horses at the same time – just one of the many memories that the audience took home with them that day.
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