Bull Racing: Madura Island

If Madura is justly famous for one thing, it is kerapan sapi, or bull racing.The cattle raised on the island are finer beasts than those of Java. Delicate and creamy-brown in color, they move like thoroughbred horses. In August and September, after the rice harvests, the proud animals are put to spectacular use in dramatic races held in towns throughout Madura as travel writer Tim Hannigan explains.

The races originated as a fun way to plow the rice fields, and to prove the strength of the animals. They are now an institutionalized tradition.

Two bulls are harnessed together, pulling a simple rig of bound bamboo. The jockey crouches on this platform and clings on for dear life as the bulls thunder across a 100-meter course at terrifying speeds.

In the major competitions the bulls wear elegant harnesses, and are soaped and cleaned like supermodels. A winning team can take home serious prize money, and the best bulls are worth many millions of rupiah.

The grand finale of the bull racing season is the championships in Pamekasan in September or October when the races are accompanied by traditional dance and music, and a generally festive atmosphere.

(Tim Hannigan)

Foto Courtesy: indonesia.com