LAUNCH OF THE 2019 SEASON OF BUFFALO RACES

The competition calendar of this picturesque attraction of West Bali has just been published by the authorities of the regency of Jembrana. Called Makepung, the buffalo races take place in the rice fields on a course of about 500 m. Hundreds of pairs of buffaloes are teamed up together with their jockeys who ride the traditional wooden ploughs that are slightly modified for the competition. The Makepung races usually start early mornings at 07:30 with dozens of pairs of buffaloes participating. Another hundred or so take part in the ‘fashion’ parade. The races last for five hours, with the buffaloes divided into three racing divisions. This year they lead up to 3 finals, known as the Governor Cup (14 Jul 2019), the Bupati Cup (22 Sept 2019) and finally the Jembrana Regent’s Cup (17 Nov 2019).
Our guests love participating in these events because it is a rare moment of sharing with the local villagers and farmers. The bath of the buffaloes in the sea after the competition is really something to see. A unique opportunity to take very nice pictures.