The equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities marked the opening of the competition in Zhaosu County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, which takes place from July 8 to 13.

A rider performs stunts on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

A rider performs stunts on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

A female rider performs stunts on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

A female rider performs stunts on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

The equestrian events are the first of this year's games, which will feature the highest number of participating teams in the history of the event. A total of 229 athletes and 276 horses will showcase their exceptional skills and techniques.

Riders take part in Kyz kuar, or "girl chasing" event, during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

Riders take part in Kyz kuar, or "girl chasing" event, during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

Two men wrestle on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

Two men wrestle on horseback during the equestrian events of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Xinjiang on July 8, 2024. /CFP

The main venue for this year's games is in Sanya, Hainan Province, where the competition will be held from November 22 to 30. The successful start of the equestrian events in Xinjiang marks the opening of the games and heralds a new chapter in the celebration of ethnic unity.