People of the Yi ethnic group participate in a sheep-shearing contest during a folk festival to pray for good harvest and health in southwest China's Sichuan Province on Saturday. /VCG Photo

The Yi usually choose an auspicious day between late July and early August to hold the grand festival, which also includes sheep fighting, wrestling and horse racing. /VCG Photo

A shepherd of the Yi ethnic group guides the sheep flock to the water before the shearing. /VCG Photo

Since most Yi people are scattered in mountainous areas at high altitudes, herding sheep plays an important role in helping locals alleviate poverty. /VCG Photo