Whip-wielding jockeys rode bulls bareback as they competed during Chonburi's annual buffalo race festival in Thailand on Saturday. /VCG Photo

Held for over 140 years, the festival is the local farmers' way to say thank you to the animals for their hard work in the fields. /VCG Photo

The buffalos were leashed together in pairs with their whips-handed drivers running frantically behind to keep up. Participants are likely to get hurt but the injuries are normally minor since the event takes place in the soft mud. /VCG Photo

Apart from buffalo racing, the festival also features other events, including a contest for the healthiest buffalo, a buffalo fashion contest and a parade of beautifully decorated buffalo carts. /VCG Photo