Horse race revives tradition in West Bank village
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In the Israeli-occupied West Bank, jockeys competed in an annual horse race in a Palestinian village after a two-year suspension caused by the Gaza war.
Event coordinator Ismael Abu Awad explained that limited funding and resources made supporting the riders difficult, but the community provided what help they could. Riders navigated a dirt track as spectators watched from the course and rooftops. Horse culture remains important to Palestinians, with races and equestrian events held throughout the West Bank.
Organisers see the race as a way to maintain Palestinian heritage and offer local jockeys a chance to display their skills, as travel to international competitions can be difficult. Racer Mohammed Al-Ajlouni expressed hope to compete in Italy, demonstrating the participants’ aspirations extend beyond the local event. The race took place against a backdrop of decreasing open land due to Israeli settlement construction since 1967.
